Newcastle fixtures: Aston Villa reunion headlines early test of top-four ambitions

With Champions League football returning to St James' Park, Eddie Howe's side faces the challenge of balancing domestic ambition with European commitments.

Newcastle fixtures:

16 August: Aston Villa v Newcastle

25 August: Newcastle v Liverpool

30 August: Leeds United v Newcastle

13 September: Newcastle v Wolves

20 September: Bournemouth v Newcastle

Newcastle kick off their season with a key away match at Aston Villa, the team they narrowly beat last year to secure Champions League qualification, making this fixture a vital early test in their quest to maintain their spot among the elite. They then host Liverpool in what promises to be an early-season blockbuster under the lights at St James' Park.

Howe's men then travel to newly-promoted Leeds United — a high-energy clash likely to challenge their composure. After the international break, they return home to face Wolves, where three points will be expected. The first five rounds wrap up with a long trip south to face Bournemouth, a reunion for Howe at his former club.

A balanced but demanding start, these fixtures will test Newcastle's consistency early in the season.

Transfer activity has been dominated by speculation around striker Alexander Isak, whose 23-goal season has attracted serious interest from Liverpool. Newcastle have rejected multiple bids and remain hopeful of keeping him, but a sale would trigger a significant reshuffle. In preparation, the club has lined up potential replacements including Benjamin Sesko, Yoane Wissa, and Nicolas Jackson.

Their only two confirmed major signings so far are winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest for 55 million pounds and former Arsenal number 1 Aaron Ramsdale on loan from Southampton. Elanga brings pace and goal threat, and he's eager to contribute:

"The ambition and energy at this club are different. I'm here to win," Elanga said.

Howe has reiterated his desire to keep Isak, but also stressed the need for "preparing for all scenarios."

With a fanbase riding a wave of belief, Newcastle head into 2025/26 with ambitions that stretch beyond the top five. The Magpies are now eyeing silverware and sustained success across all competitions.

Newcastle standings - Historic log positions

2020/21 - 12th

2021/22 - 11th

2022/23 - 4th

2023/24 - 7th

2024/25 - 5th