Newcastle Starting XI vs Barcelona: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineups | OneFootball

Newcastle vs Barcelona Champions League Showdown: Team News and Lineups

Return of European Nights at St James’ Park

For Newcastle, the wait is over. Champions League football returns to St James’ Park on Thursday, a reminder of how far Eddie Howe’s side have come in such a short time. The visit of Barcelona is more than just a fixture—it is a statement of belonging among Europe’s elite once again.

Yet, their preparations have been complicated. Two big summer signings, Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey, will not be available. Wissa, a £55 million arrival from Brentford, is still waiting for his debut after picking up an injury while on international duty with DR Congo. Ramsey, secured from Aston Villa for £40m, is nursing an ankle issue suffered in a goalless draw with Leeds. Both represent the ambition Newcastle showed in the transfer market, but both will be watching from the sidelines.

Anthony Gordon, who sat out the 1-0 win over Wolves through suspension, is back in contention. His ban only applied to domestic competition, giving Howe an important attacking option against a formidable opponent.

Barcelona’s Injury Concerns

Barcelona travel to Tyneside with injury problems of their own. Lamine Yamal, the teenage sensation, missed their emphatic 6-0 victory over Valencia with a groin issue picked up while representing Spain. His availability will be a late call, and his absence would rob fans of one of the most exciting young talents in Europe.

Photo: IMAGO

Frenkie de Jong is another doubt, while Alejandro Balde, Gavi and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen are confirmed absentees. Hansi Flick’s side, though, remain stacked with quality, and the return of Pedri in midfield offers balance to a reshuffled XI.

Predicted Lineups

Newcastle XI (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Livramento; Joelinton, Guimaraes, Tonali; Elanga, Woltemade, Gordon.

Barcelona XI (4-3-3): Garcia; Kounde, Araujo, Curbasi, Martin; Pedri, Casado; Raphinha, Fermin, Rashford; Lewandowski.

Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm BST on Thursday, 18 September 2025, with coverage live on TNT Sports.