Newcastle United return to the UEFA Champions League on Thursday night as they welcome Barcelona to St James’ Park in a highly anticipated opening-round clash. The game brings together a side still working to find consistency in the Premier League and another already flexing its attacking strength in La Liga.

Eddie Howe’s men endured a difficult start domestically, failing to score in two of their first three matches and collecting only two points. Relief came in their latest outing, when debutant Nick Woltemade struck the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory over Wolves. That result lifted spirits, though Newcastle’s metrics tell a different story — their xPTS of 7.05 outweighs the five points earned, while their xG of 0.93 highlights ongoing struggles in front of goal.

Barcelona, meanwhile, arrive full of confidence after dismantling Valencia 6-0 at the Johan Cruyff Stadium. Fermin Lopez, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski each scored twice, an emphatic rebound from their 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano before the international break. With 12 goals from 9.1 xG across four matches, they rank among Europe’s most dangerous attacking sides, though defensive lapses remain with 3.9 xGA conceded.

Team news could prove decisive. Newcastle are missing Yoane Wissa, their deadline-day signing, after the striker sustained a knee injury on international duty. Barcelona are also set to be without teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who has two goals and two assists already this season but is sidelined through treatment. Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, is expected to feature again after recording his first La Liga assist against Valencia.