Newcastle coach Eddie Howe says if his squad beat Barcelona in their Champions League last‑16 first leg at St James’ Park on Tuesday they will become legends.
Howe said this tie could be “the biggest game in the club’s history” and wants his players to be remembered alongside the heroes of Newcastle’s famous European nights.
Howe, who has overseen Newcastle’s rise from Premier League strugglers to a team competing deep in Europe, reminded his players of the iconic 1997 Champions League win over Barcelona. “You couldn’t not watch that game,” he said when recalling how Tino Asprilla’s hat‑trick created a lasting legacy at the club. Howe urged his squad to “write their names into Newcastle folklore” with a performance fans will talk about for decades.
Newcastle reached this stage of the competition after a convincing aggregate win over Qarabag in the knockout play‑offs, building confidence and belief in Europe.
They now face a Barcelona side managed by Hansi Flick, who finished top of La Liga and arrive in strong form.
Speaking to reporters, Howe accepted the challenge his team faces but insisted the focus must remain on preparation and performance. “We’ve never been in this position in the Champions League before,” he said.
“We have to get the players ready for that and find some energy that will elevate our performance.”
Barcelona have a strong record in the competition and won the earlier league‑phase meeting this season, but Howe believes Newcastle’s hunger and home support can make the difference. The Magpies will be without key midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, adding to the test of squad depth, but Howe’s message remains clear: this is a rare chance to achieve something special.
With midfield battles and attacking threats likely to decide the tie, Howe’s simple message to his players is to embrace the moment and give everything. As he put it, “that’s the only way we’ll get through.”
