Eddie Howe has confirmed that Anthony Gordon could return to the Newcastle United XI for Thursday’s huge Champions League match against Barcelona.
Gordon is suspended for Newcastle United for one more match in domestic competition following his red card against Liverpool last month but seems likely to return to the squad on Thursday.
Indeed, Newcastle United vs Barcelona is arguably the standout tie of the first week of the 2025/26 Champions League campaign.
It will be the fifth time Newcastle have played Barcelona and their record stands at one win and three defeats thus far.
With that in mind here’s a look at the latest Newcastle United confirmed team news, injury latest and our predicted lineup.
Newcastle United confirmed team news vs Barcelona
Howe has confirmed that Yoane Wissa will be ruled out until after the international break in October with a knee injury.
That is a huge blow for Newcastle and puts pressure on club-record signing Nick Woltemade. The German will likely shake off a cramp sustained against Wolves to feature against the Spanish champions.
Elsewhere, the only other confirmed absentee is Jacob Ramsey. His ankle injury will rule him out until October.
Speaking ahead of the game, Howe said of Gordon: “He’s good. He’s in my thoughts for tomorrow. He’s an outstanding player and you can’t have enough of those.
“We’ll look to utilise him. Whether we think that’s from the start of the game let’s wait and see. He brings a pace and directness to our forward line which you always need. It’s an important season for him in his career and we’re looking forward to helping him reach the very highest levels.”
Newcastle United predicted lineup vs Barcelona
Earlier this week, Geordie Boot Boys named their predicted Newcastle lineup against Barcelona.
The only real debate is whether to use Anthony Elanga’s pace against Barcelona’s notoriously high line, or whether to stick with the reliability of Jacob Murphy on the right wing.
Newcastle United predicted XI vs Barcelona: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Livramento; Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Elanga, Woltemade, Gordon
Injured: Ramsey (ankle), Wissa (foot)
Time and date: 8pm BST on Thursday 13 September 2025
Venue: St James’ Park, Newcastle
TV channel and live stream: TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports Ultimate, Discovery+ website and app
Referee: Glenn Nyberg
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