Champions League 2025-2026: Newcastle-Athletic Bilbao, the likely lineups

Newcastle and Athletic Bilbao face each other on the fourth day of the Champions League. Kickoff at 9 p.m. at St. James’Park. Magpies hunting for a third consecutive win to move closer to the top eight in the standings, while the Basques seek important points in view of qualification.

Howe opts for the attacking trident formed by Gordon, Woltemade and Murphy. In midfield, former Milan player Tonali is in the box, in defense another former Rossoneri: Thiaw will partner Botman.

Valverde has to do without Inaki and Nico Williams: room for Berenguer, Unai Gomez and Navarro in the three-quarter behind the’only point Guruzeta. In midfield Rego ahead of Ruiz de Galarreta, in defense Paredes with Laporte.

Probable lineups

Newcastle (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Burn; Miley, Tonali, Ramsey; Gordon, Woltemade, Murphy. Coach: Howe.

Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1): Simón; Gorosabel, Paredes, Laporte, Boiro; Rego, Jauregizar; Berenguer, Unai Gomez, Navarro; Guruzeta. Coach: Valverde.