Newcastle United were one of Manchester United’s early Premier League foes. Who could forget the titanic tussle between Kevin Keegan and Sir Alex Ferguson that, ultimately, ended in heartbreak for the Magpies.
The contest proved a sliding doors moment, with the Red Devils going on to dominate English football for years to come while Newcastle entered a period of decline. However, fast forward to the present and the two clubs are operating on a more even keel.
Eddie Howe’s men have won five of the last six contests across all competitions - two of those at Old Trafford. Only one of the sides are competing in the Champions League this season - and it is not the three-time European Cup winners.
Perhaps that is why, despite the poor away form in 2025-26, Newcastle fans are feeling somewhat optimistic ahead of the Boxing Day clash. Here is a combined starting XI made up of players from the two clubs - and the results are surprising.
5. LB - Lewis Hall
Like Livramento, another who could star for England at next year's World Cup. | Getty Images
6. NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 02: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United looks on during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur at St James' Park on December 02, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Tonali has developed into one of the Premier League's standout midfielders under Eddie Howe. | Getty Images
7. CM - Bruno Guimaraes
The first - and in our opinion best - of two Brunos to feature in this combined XI. | Getty Images
8. CM - Bruno Fernandes
At last, a Manchester United player! Fernandes has carried the Red Devils on his back this season but will miss the Boxing Day fixture. | Getty Images