Newcastle United were faced with something of a baptism of fire when they made their sensational return to the Champions League in 2023/24.

The delight of just being there left them relishing being drawn in the group of death alongside European giants Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, and Borussia Dortmund.

Now just two years on, the Magpies are preparing to embark on their first taste of the revamped league phase format. They have eight matches to look forward to, and while there are some daunting challenges once again, the draw this time offers scope for serious Geordie optimism.

Newcastle Have Learnt From Previous Experience

After leading Newcastle back to Europe’s top club competition, and guiding them to their first domestic trophy in 69 years, Eddie Howe was granted the freedom of the city. The 47-year-old is worshipped on Tyneside, and after a challenging summer off the field, he is now fully focused on their Champions League opener against Barcelona at St James Park.

Speaking in his pre-Barcelona press conference, Howe stated that his players have learned from their last campaign, and are much more prepared to progress further into the competition.

The overall fanfare around Champions League nights undoubtedly takes some getting used to. Newcastle’s established players will draw upon their experience of events two years ago, while their summer recruits are sure to thrive from the unfamiliarity of it all.

“The build-up is different, the feel is different. Having done that before certainly helps us, and the squad is arguably stronger.” Eddie Howe

Champions League Opponents Will Fear St James Park

Newcastle produced one of the greatest nights in the club’s long history in their opening home match last time around. Paris Saint-Germain felt the full force of the Geordies during their 4-1 humbling two years ago.

The victory for Newcastle was thrust further into perspective when the French champions went on to win the entire competition the very next season. This is proof alone that Eddie Howe’s side will be a match for anyone in their very best form.

The Toon boss spoke of the importance of the memories of that famous night and the role it could play through the course of the campaign, particularly when he goes up against Hansi Flick on opening night.

In addition to having a new centre forward, Nick Woltemade, to call upon providing a boost, so does the availability of Anthony Gordon. While the 24-year-old continues to serve a domestic three-match ban, he is eligible to feature in Europe.

“He’s in my thoughts for tomorrow. He brings a pace and directness to our forward line which you always need.”

Newcastle United Target Deep UEFA Champions League Run

Despite making a very credible fist of an extraordinarily difficult group in 2023, Newcastle failed to qualify from the group stage. Rather than lick their wounds, Eddie Howe’s team channelled their disappointment and shifted their focus to other competitions.

That steel-like focus remains, and this time around, they are determined to make it as far as they can. The mindset seems different, with Howe expressing his own desire to improve on last time’s group stage exit.

“Ultimately, we didn’t progress beyond the group stage, which was a disappointment, but we can use those experiences to help us.”

When asked what the goals are for the competition, he made no secret that Newcastle is here to compete, rather than just make memories.

“Yes, we want magical nights, we want those moments that everyone remembers. One-off games are great, but you also want consistent results.” Howe

The Toon faithful have unwavering faith in their coaching staff to navigate the challenge posed by any number of different opponents. Whether it’s at home to Barcelona, or in Belgium against Union Saint-Gilloise, the Geordies will undoubtedly make themselves heard.

Captain’s Statement Of Intent

With every passing match, Bruno Guimarães‘s bond with the Newcastle supporters seems to grow stronger.

The Brazilian midfielder lives and breathes every moment, whether it be a Wembley final or a Premier League battle at home. There will be few relishing the impending European campaign more than Bruno.

Speaking to the media, the 27-year-old refused to put a cap on his team’s ambition, suggesting that they will fight tooth and nail to make a success of the tournament.

”We don’t want to put a limit on our dreams. We are very excited and hope we can go as far as possible.” Bruno Guimarães

He has proven himself to possess the necessary characteristics to captain Newcastle United. There are sure to be difficult moments throughout the campaign, but with Bruno Guimarães leading the charge, heads won’t be allowed to drop on the Magpies’ side.

Different Format Provides Fresh Opportunities

The change in format provides Newcastle with a longer runway to feel their way into the tournament, as well as a more even spread of competition across the league phase.

Last time, they relied on their ability to suffocate and overwhelm their opponents, a tactic they performed admirably. The challenges ahead will allow Eddie Howe to deploy a greater range of game plans and tactics, to utilise the squad that he himself believes to be stronger than last time.

“The squad is arguably stronger. I back the quality that we have. They are tough fixtures for us. The early games are really important because they set the foundations.”

While arguably the hardest match comes first, Newcastle is not viewing it as a free hit, and aims to be straight out of the blocks.

Confidence in the camp received a boost when club record signing Nick Woltemade scored the winner on debut at the weekend. Now that the first victory of the season is on the board, Newcastle can approach their huge European opener with freedom, but more importantly, a plan.

When the famous UEFA Champions League anthem reverberates around the city on Thursday night, one thing is certain. Newcastle Upon Tyne will come to a near standstill as their team takes on the might of Barcelona.