eddie howe has just terminated Newcastle star’s contract after flopped and refusing to be substituted during second half against Barcelona
Eddie Howe reacts to Newcastle United Champions League capitulation v Barcelona
Newcastle United crashed out of the Champions League after Barcelona hammering.
Newcastle United’s heaviest ever European defeat on a night that, for a while, promised so much more.
But a second half capitulation wiped away the fact they competed with Barcelona for three quarters of the Champions League last 16 tie.
An Anthony Elanga double had twice pulled NUFC back into the game, but a second half blitz, that threatened to be so much worse at times, ended United’s run in the competition. Final score 8-3 on aggregate, 7-2 on the night.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle United’s manager, was left disappointed after their 1-1 draw against Barcelona at St. James’ Park. “I’m just devastated we could not get the win we deserved,” Howe said, acknowledging his team’s strong performance. “That’s football, it never plays to romance” ¹.
Howe praised his team’s bravery and enthusiasm but felt they lacked the quality needed to beat Barcelona. “We were really into it. We never felt out of it. I’m disappointed we didn’t score the first goal. It was crucial,” he added ².
The Newcastle manager emphasized the importance of individual duels and key moments in the match, saying, “We must win individual duels and succeed in key moments of the match”. He also highlighted the significance of the game, stating it’s the biggest match in Newcastle’s history ³.
Howe’s team will now head to Camp Nou for the second leg, and he’s urging his players to give their absolute best. “If there’s time for Newcastle to give their absolute best, it’s these two games against Barcelona,” he said ³.
Keith Andrews has signed a new long-term contract with Brentford, extending his stay until 2032. This comes after a successful first season as head coach, leading the team to seventh place in the Premier League, just five points behind Chelsea in fifth ¹ ².
Andrews, who took over from Thomas Frank in June 2025, has done an “outstanding job” according to Brentford’s director of football, Phil Giles. He aims to continue evolving the team, focusing on playing “relentless football” and entertaining fans ³ ⁴.
Andrews’ appointment was seen as a surprise, given his previous role as set-piece coach, but he’s proven to be a good fit for the club. He’s known for his attention to detail and ability to bring out the best in players
Keith Andrews has been doing an amazing job as Brentford’s head coach, leading the team to impressive performances. He’s focused on exploiting quick counter-attacking moves and intense pressing, which has been paying off. Andrews’ team is also known for their careful shot selection, with most shots coming from inside the penalty area ¹ ².
*Tactical Tweaks*
Andrews has made some notable changes, including using a 4-2-3-1 formation and emphasizing out-of-possession organization. He’s also worked on set-piece strategies, particularly kick-offs and throw-ins, which have led to some lightning-fast goals ³ ⁴.
*Defensive Strength*
Under Andrews, Brentford has improved defensively, conceding fewer shots and limiting opponents’ quality chances. They’re also ruthless on counter-attacks, scoring four goals in transition this season
Keith Andrews, Brentford’s head coach, has been doing an amazing job, leading the team to impressive performances. He’s focused on exploiting quick counter-attacking moves and intense pressing, which has been paying off. Andrews’ team is also known for their careful shot selection, with most shots coming from inside the penalty area ¹.
*Tactical Tweaks*
Andrews has made some notable changes, including using a 4-2-3-1 formation and emphasizing out-of-possession organization. He’s also worked on set-piece strategies, particularly kick-offs and throw-ins, which have led to some lightning-fast goals ² ³.
*Defensive Strength*
Under Andrews, Brentford has improved defensively, conceding fewer shots and limiting opponents’ quality chances. They’re also ruthless on counter-attacks, scoring four goals in transition this season
