Newcastle United host Atletico Madrid at St. James’ Park on Saturday for their final pre-season friendly before the Premier League gets underway.
With both teams seeking momentum ahead of their respective domestic campaigns, this first-ever meeting promises an intriguing contest.
Newcastle United vs Atletico Madrid – Match preview
Newcastle team news
Eddie Howe’s squad arrives in excellent physical condition, with only Joe Willock unavailable due to a hamstring strain suffered during training. Howe confirmed in Friday’s press conference: “Joe’s recovery is on track, but we won’t rush him back. Aside from that, everyone is vying for a place.”
Summer acquisition Anthony Elanga, signed from Nottingham Forest for £55 million, is expected to make his club debut on the wing, while Sean Longstaff and Joelinton form a double pivot in midfield.
With Alexander Isak exiled from the squad, Will Osula is the only recognised striker in the squad.
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Atletico Madrid team news
Diego Simeone faces a minor selection headache as midfielder Pablo Barrios completes late fitness tests on a groin niggle. Barrios trained fully on Thursday, and club physio Álvaro Pérez stated: “We’re optimistic he’ll feature, even if off the bench.”
New signings Clement Lenglet and Johnny Cardoso bolster the defense, while Dávid Hancko and academy graduate Marc Pubill add depth to the backline.
Form
Newcastle United: LLLDD
The Magpies are unbeaten in two, but have failed to register a win in their last five outings, conceding 11 goals along the way.
Defensive lapses have been costly and goals hard to come by, leaving Eddie Howe’s side in a precarious position on the eve of their friendly with Atlético.
Atletico Madrid: WLWWL
Atletico ended their league campaign on a high note, beating Girona 4-0 away, but endured a disappointing time at FIFA Club World Cup, exiting a competition at the group stage. A 4-0 defeat to PSG was followed by wins over Seattle Sounders and Botafogo, but it was not enough to advance.
The Rojiblancos’ involvement in the tournament means they have begun their pre-season preparations late. They lost 1-0 to FC Porto in their opening friendly in Portugal last Sunday.
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Last Meeting
This fixture marks the first meeting between Newcastle and Atletico Madrid. Both the teams had a mixed season last time and will look showcase a positive performance before the new season starts.
Predicted Lineups
Newcastle: Pope; Targett, Schär, Burn, Trippier; Guimarães, Miley; Murphy, Joelinton, Gordon; Osula.
Atlético Madrid: Oblak; Llorente, Lenglet, Le Normand, Galán; Gallagher, Koke, Barrios, Simeone; Sorloth, Álvarez.
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How to watch Newcastle vs Atletico Madrid
The match will be shown on Newcastle’s streaming service NUFC TV, available via their official website. Viewers can stream it for £6.99.
What time does Newcastle vs Atletico Madrid kick-off?
The match will kick off at 4pm BST on Saturday, 9 August at St James’ Park.
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