Newcastle’s Champions League 2025/26 campaign: rivals revealed in UEFA draw
Newcastle United will play the Champions League 2025/26 after a long absence, and the draw held this Thursday (28) defined the English team’s rivals in the new league phase of the tournament.
Returning to the competition with high expectations, the Magpies enter the season backed by heavy investment in their squad and a project that has positioned them among the most ambitious clubs in Europe. The team believes it can go far in this year’s edition and is considered one of the potential dark horses of the tournament.
Newcastle’s Champions League group of rivals
During UEFA’s official ceremony, the draw confirmed eight opponents for Newcastle. Among them are European giants and the current tournament champion, ensuring a highly competitive calendar for Eddie Howe’s team.
Newcastle’s 2025/26 Champions League rivals:
- Barcelona
- Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
- Bayer Leverkusen
- PSV Eindhoven
- Benfica
- Union Saint-Gilloise (Belgium)
- Olympique de Marseille
- Athletic Bilbao
Fixtures: Home and away challenges
At St. James’ Park, Newcastle will host Barcelona, Benfica, PSV, and Athletic Bilbao — four demanding clashes in front of their fans.
Away from home, the Magpies will face equally tough challenges: PSG and Marseille in France, Union SG in Belgium, and Bayer Leverkusen in Germany.
Newcastle’s last Champions League appearance
The club’s last participation came in the 2023/24 season, when the team failed to progress beyond the group stage. With just one win, two draws, and three defeats, Newcastle finished with a disappointing record.
Now, two years later, the club is determined to turn the page and prove its growth on the European stage. With new reinforcements and a more experienced squad, expectations around Newcastle are higher than ever.
