The spotlight shines on Andoni Iraola today as he leads Bournemouth to Newcastle United following his announced departure.
The Cherries contest their first match since confirmation that Iraola will leave the club this summer. Many observers believe this fixture serves as an audition for the Newcastle job itself. Bournemouth arrive in sensational form, currently enjoying a record 12-match unbeaten run in the Premier League. They recently masterminded a dominant 2–1 victory over league leaders Arsenal to bolster their European hopes.
Newcastle United desperately need a result to halt a season that is quickly unravelling under Eddie Howe. The Magpies have lost seven of their last ten league matches during a dismal run of form. They currently occupy 14th place after suffering three consecutive defeats in all competitions. Howe’s side has also lost four of their last five matches at St James’ Park. They must rediscover their defensive solidity to stop a rampant Bournemouth attack this afternoon.
Newcastle United vs Bournemouth – Match preview and team news
- Date: Saturday, 18 April 2026
- Kick-off: 15:00 BST
- Venue: St James’ Park, Newcastle
- Referee: Thomas Bramall
- VAR: Matt Donohue
- Last Meeting: Newcastle 3–3 Bournemouth (10 January 2026, FA Cup)
Team news
Newcastle United
Eddie Howe continues to grapple with a depleted squad as several key players remain sidelined. Joelinton is suspended for this clash after accumulating ten yellow cards so far this season. Fabian Schär is still unavailable as he recovers from minor surgery on his foot. Furthermore, Bruno Guimarães faces a late fitness test regarding a nagging thigh injury. Howe must reshuffle his midfield to compensate for these significant absences.
Bournemouth
The visitors are in much better health as they aim to extend their unbeaten streak. Julio Soler is back in contention following a recovery from a recent thigh problem. However, Lewis Cook has been ruled out as his rehabilitation takes longer than expected. The rest of Andoni Iraola’s squad is in good shape after their victory over Arsenal. Bournemouth have scored in every one of their Premier League visits to Tyneside.
Form
Newcastle United
Newcastle approach this fixture in a period of real instability with pressure mounting on the manager. They recently fell to a 2–1 comeback defeat against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The Magpies have lost seven league games when scoring first this season. This represents a new record in the history of the Premier League. Both teams have scored in each of their last seven home matches.
Bournemouth
Bournemouth arrive in a completely different mood after extending their unbeaten run to 12 games. They have conceded only three goals during their last six matches on the road. This defensive maturity has seen them move within three points of the European places. Notably, they have won three of their seven top-flight visits to St James’ Park. The Cherries look well-organised and capable of exploiting Newcastle’s current vulnerabilities.
Predicted lineups
Newcastle United Predicted XI (4-3-3): Ramsdale; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Miley, Tonali, Ramsey; Barnes, Osula, Gordon
Bournemouth Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Petrovic; Jimenez, Hill, Senesi, Truffert; Christie, Scott; Rayan, Kroupi, Tavernier; Evanilson
How to watch Newcastle United vs AFC Bournemouth?
The match is not televised live in the UK due to the Saturday 3 PM blackout.
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