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.
9. RW - Bryan Mbeumo
And like London buses, two come at once! Mbeumo is someone Newcastle targeted over the summer and he has enjoyed a solid start at his new club. | Getty Images
10. LW - Anthony Gordon
Admittedly, this was a tricky one. Would Matheus Cunha get in this team over Gordon? | AFP via Getty Images
11. ST - Nick Woltemade
Woltemade recovered well from his Tyne-Wear derby nightmare to bag a brace against Chelsea last weekend. | Getty Images