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It has been 24 months since Newcastle's gaffer attended his initial Champions League match, and now the manager is on a mission to disrupt continental giants.

Barcelona’s Arrival at St James' Park

With the Blaugrana touched down midweek, their manager's La Liga champions exhibited no sign of arrogance. Actually, the Barcelona boss cautioned about the high tempo the squad need to prepare for at St James’ Park.

“There were several question marks,” remarked Howe. “We had the impression we were going through something new, we loved it however finally we fell short. This time around, our focus is greater to advance.”

Using Previous Campaign

He remembers PSG being utterly overwhelmed on this ground back then, as they lost by a heavy scoreline. At that time, the Magpies sometimes seemed a little bit similar to rookie Champions League tourists; today they aim to prove they are top-tier competitors.

Although Howe has grown significantly after he watched his first live European match, the creditable draw Newcastle secured in Italy previously emphasized that Howe wasn’t so inexperienced as he might have seemed.

Roster Quality and Know-How

At present, as he prepares to neutralize the challenge of Raphinha, Marcus Rashford, Frenkie de Jong and others, Howe enjoys the bonus of previous exposure. “Everything that goes into a European match is different compared to domestic games,” noted Howe. “The atmosphere is unique, the lead-up feels unlike. Previously we hadn't done that before yet that know-how is an asset this time. Our squad’s possibly stronger than it was last time.”

Past Encounters

This brings back recollections regarding an earlier appearance by the Catalans, back in mid-September 1997. To mark the occasion, a club legend is coming from Colombia to be present with the officials. Asprilla’s memorable group stage treble against Louis van Gaal’s side on home soil assisted the manager's side achieve a narrow triumph versus the Spanish outfit. Bearing in mind their lineup featured Portuguese icons, world-class talents and Luis Enrique, it was some achievement.

Today, as both sets of supporters prepare for their latest clash in this competition, they will also remember the legendary manager. The former England manager’s offspring will, like Asprilla, watch from the executive areas with both teams Robson managed brilliantly face each other for the first time in over two decades.

Tactical Battle

Although Howe hopes for a different result, he is not about to disregard the legacy. “We're aware of connections with Sir Bobby which we fully embrace,” he said. “That’s what makes this such an iconic fixture. I could draw on the psychology of the match.”

Previously in September 1997, a knock forced Pep Guardiola on the sidelines, and the unavailability of an emerging star called Yamal this time around results in an enormous hole in their lineup. While Eddie – who mentioned he was disappointed to miss out on playing the young talent – spots an opening, he must remain aware of an opposing manager with a similar the capability to switch tactical systems effectively.

Similar to the Newcastle boss, Flick doesn’t rigidly follow dogma and, during leading of Bayern Munich, the experienced national team boss was called “Flicki-Flaka”. It was highlighted his ability to combine high pressing and smart buildup, and, at Barcelona, the apparently reborn Manchester United loanee Marcus is clearly enjoying being coached by such an subtly flexible tactician.

The appreciation is shared. “It’s a wonderful asset to have him in my team,” remarked Flick. “His fantastic, unbelievable, attributes.” The team may need them.

“This is my first time come before,” added Flick. “Yet the team say it’s maybe the best atmosphere in the Premier League. I'm ready for a imposing side with real intensity. Eddie Howe has performed a excellent work.”