Newcastle United are preparing to return to Champions League action on Tuesday evening with a challenging away fixture at Marseille.
The Magpies, aiming to secure a fourth consecutive victory in Europe, currently sit sixth in the overall group standings after collecting nine points from their opening four matches. A top-eight finish will guarantee Newcastle a place in the last-16, while finishing ninth to 24th would only allow progression via a seeded play-off tie.
Manager Eddie Howe spoke ahead of the clash at Stade Vélodrome, reflecting on the team’s recent form and the challenge of maintaining consistency at the highest level.
Howe said that the squad is confident but acknowledged that Champions League games always carry unpredictability. He added that the next two fixtures, including the Marseille game, will be a significant test of Newcastle’s ability to perform consistently, particularly following their 2-1 Premier League victory over Manchester City at St James’ Park on Saturday.
While the team is optimistic, UEFA regulations could see one of Newcastle’s key players, Joelinton, miss a future Champions League match. Joelinton is currently one yellow card away from suspension under UEFA’s disciplinary rules.
He received bookings in Newcastle’s first two group stage matches but avoided further cautions in the last two, including a goal-scoring performance in the 2-0 win over Athletic Club. If he receives another booking in any of the remaining four group matches, he will face a one-match ban.
This situation is particularly notable given Joelinton’s disciplinary record this season. While he is close to suspension in the Carabao Cup, he is further from a Premier League ban, needing two additional bookings before matchday 20.
The 29-year-old Brazilian’s cautious play will be closely monitored by the coaching staff, as his availability could be crucial for Newcastle in both domestic and European competitions.
In addition to Joelinton’s potential suspension, Newcastle face multiple absences for the Marseille match. William Osula, Yoane Wissa, and Kieran Trippier are sidelined with injuries, while Jamaal Lascelles, John Ruddy, Mark Gillespie, and Harrison Ashby are ineligible for the game.
Overall, while Newcastle United aim to maintain their momentum and challenge for progression from the Champions League group stage, they must navigate the risk of key players missing matches due to UEFA’s strict disciplinary rules.
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