It’s been a pre-season from hell for Newcastle United having missed out on several transfers and its high-profile star Alexander Isak agitating a move away from the club.
There has been only been three incomings so far in the form of winger Anthony Elanga (£55 million), center-back Malick Thiaw (£34m) and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale (loan).
Academy prospect Park Seung-soo is expected to make the step up to the first team but might only play back up for Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon.
For manager Eddie Howe, a lot hinges on Isak’s future. The Swedish striker scored 23 goals and set up six more to fire Newcastle into the Champions League and will be key for Newcastle finishing inside the top five once again.
How can Newcastle line up for the 2025-26 Premier League season?
Howe operates in a 4-3-3 formation with three physically robust and agile midfielders and rapid attackers to compliment them in transition.
Gordon, who suffered an ankle injury during pre-season, will likely be fit in time for its season-opener away to Aston Villa.
Newcastle’s Best XI:
Nick Pope; Tino Livramento, Fabian Schar, Sven Botman, Lewis Hall; Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali; Anthony Elanga, Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon
Content Source: sportstar.thehindu.com