Leverkusen vs. Newcastle UCL preview: Can Bayer beat another Premier League team? | OneFootball

When the Champions League returns to the BayArena this week, the meeting between Bayer Leverkusen and Newcastle United arrives with the kind of narrative weight that Bundesliga watchers adore. It’s not just Germany vs. England, not just Bundesliga vs. Premier League - It’s a clash marked by momentum, pressure, personal storylines, and a rare “homecoming” for two German players now making names for themselves in black-and-white stripes.

Leverkusen riding high after stunning win over Manchester City

Leverkusen enter this match with confidence that borders on swagger - and with good reason. Their most recent Champions League outing produced one of the competition’s headline results: a win over Manchester City, the reigning powerhouse of English football. That victory didn’t just hand Leverkusen three points; it placed them firmly on the European map again, reminding onlookers that German tactical discipline and tempo-driven football can still humble the Premier League’s elite.

Domestically and abroad, Leverkusen's form has been trending upward, even if their Champions League ranking (17th) suggests there’s still work to be done. But between their renewed defensive solidity and their sharp transitions under pressure, the Werkself arrive at this fixture with a clear sense of identity - and the belief that they can turn home advantage into another statement night.

Kasper Hjulmand's side will be keen to forget their last Bundesliga match against Augsburg (0-2 loss) and to connect to their cup form - besides Manchester City, the Werkself have also beaten Borussia Dortmund in the DFB Pokal recently.

Newcastle’s German duo return to familiar territory

On the other side, Newcastle United’s XI contains two faces sure to draw particular attention in Germany: Nick Woltemade and Malick Thiaw. Both have been central to Newcastle’s resurgence in recent weeks, both have hit strong form at the right time and both will experience something close to a homecoming as they step back onto German soil.

For Woltemade, the move from the Bundesliga to the Premier League hasn’t dulled his instincts. His intelligent movement and ability to bind Newcastle’s attacking play have earned him quick respect in England. In the Champions League, he has also been able to find his first goal - a reminder of why many in German football felt his move abroad came at exactly the right moment in his development.

Thiaw, meanwhile, has rediscovered the assertive, physically dominant defensive style that once made him one of the Bundesliga’s most promising young centre-backs. His composure on the ball and aerial presence (also impactful in attack) have turned him into a crucial voice in Newcastle’s back line. Facing a German team again will no doubt sharpen his focus - and perhaps even stir a sense of pride.

Newcastle’s Champions League form (11th) reflects a side that has been competitive without being consistently convincing. Their high-energy approach can trouble anyone on their day. But the defensive lapses that occasionally creep in will be ruthlessly punished if repeated in the BayArena.

Injuries and suspensions: Who misses out

Leverkusen remain hampered by notable absences. Alejandro Grimaldo could miss the match, a significant blow given his influence on the left flank and his recent goalscoring form. Coach Hjulmand and Sporting Director Rolfes are “hopeful” for Wednesday's clash, but are also cautious of bringing him back too soon. Several other players (Fernández, Palacios, etc.) remain unavailable or doubtful, forcing Leverkusen into yet another reshuffled lineup at a crucial time.

Newcastle, meanwhile, arrive closer to full strength but are not without their own concerns (Trippier, Botman, Pope). Minor knocks and squad rotation may force adjustments, though the core group - including Thiaw and Woltemade - is fit and available.

Predicted lineups: Leverkusen vs. Newcastle

Bayer Leverkusen (3-4-2-1):

Flekken - Andrich, Badé, Tapsoba - Arthur, Maza, García, Grimaldo - Tillman, Echeverri - Schick

Newcastle United (4-3-3):

Ramsdale - Livramento, Schär, Thiaw, Burn - Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton - Barnes, Woltemade, Gordon

Both teams have shown vulnerability. Both have shown spark. The question is who can harness their momentum more effectively on the night.