E. Howe revealed the importance of the match against Barcelona for the players' development.

2026-03-18 16:04 © AFP

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe stated before the Champions League match against Barcelona that it will be a great game for his players to grow:

"We have an experienced team and many players who have played in numerous important matches and are used to that.”

I really hope that such matches elevate the players' levels and help us grow – we certainly do not have to retreat.

"But when we have so many international-level players in our team, I don’t see that as a problem.”

"My goal is to ensure that the plan is right. Barcelona has many dangerous players that we will look to manage.”

"We need to be optimistic and positive, so the result against Chelsea and the performance itself were very important.”

Newcastle United drew 1-1 in the first leg at home.

The return match will take place this evening in Barcelona at 19:45.