Newcastle United kick-off their 2025-26 Premier League campaign with an away trip to Aston Villa.
And it promises to be an interesting encounter after the Magpies pipped Villa to Champions League qualification on the final day of last season. United lost 1-0 to Everton but Unai Emery’s side were defeated 2-0 against Manchester United, meaning Eddie Howe’s men clinched fifth spot on goal difference.
The Villans battered Newcastle 4-1 at Villa Park in April to atone for their 3-0 loss at St James’ Park in December. While there is usually little to separate the two teams in terms of the Premier League table, they both have a habit of winning comfortably on their home grounds.
But the new seasons brings new ambitions and, hopefully for Newcastle, new signings. With Premier League champions Liverpool next up after Villa, Howe will be keen to have the majority, if not all, of his transfer business done to give the club the best possible chance of making a strong start.
As of yet, the Magpies are yet to make a breakthrough but remain hopeful of that happening before the players return for pre-season on July 17. Here is a look at how Newcastle could potentially line up for the opening day clash - based on their transfer targets currently in the public domain.
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5. LB: Lewis Hall
Foot surgery in March cut short what was an outstanding campaign for the 20-year-old. Once he’s back, Hall won’t only be a regular for Newcastle but for England as well. | Getty Images
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6. CM: Sandro Tonali
A move to the No.6 role in December last year and Tonali hasn’t looked back. The Italian has been a revelation and, in many ways, transformed the team. | Getty Images
7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Appointed captain last summer, the Brazilian has taken to the role by storm after leading Newcastle to their first domestic trophy in 70 years. Bruno leads by example, both on and off the pitch. | Getty Images
8. CM: Jacob Ramsey
Having Jacob Ramsey and Joelinton, who are two different kind of players, will help give Howe a good variation in midfield. | Getty Images