Right winger signed, Joao Pedro deal: How Newcastle United could line up v Aston Villa on opening day
Newcastle United Set for Opening Day Clash Against Aston Villa – Potential Line-up Revealed
Newcastle United are set to begin their 2025-26 Premier League campaign with a challenging away fixture against Aston Villa – a match that already carries the weight of last season’s dramatic finale.
This particular encounter promises to be full of intrigue, given the tight race between the two clubs for Champions League qualification just a few months ago. Despite Newcastle falling to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Everton on the final day, Aston Villa failed to capitalise, suffering a controversial 2-0 loss against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The result saw Eddie Howe’s Magpies edge out Unai Emery’s side for fifth place — and a Champions League berth — by the narrowest of margins: goal difference.
Memories of last season’s meetings between the two sides will still be fresh. Villa Park witnessed a dominant 4-1 victory for the hosts in April, which served as revenge for the 3-0 beating they endured earlier in the season at St James’ Park. While both clubs have made a habit of taking the upper hand on their own turf, they have generally been closely matched in the league standings over recent campaigns.
As a new season dawns, however, both teams arrive with renewed ambition — and in Newcastle’s case, the expectation of significant reinforcements in the transfer market. With reigning champions Liverpool up next after the Villa clash, Eddie Howe will be desperate to wrap up the majority of his transfer business before pre-season training resumes on July 17. A strong start could set the tone for a promising campaign, and for that, a well-rounded squad is essential.
Although the Magpies are yet to complete a major summer signing, talks are ongoing and optimism remains within the club that deals can be finalised in the coming weeks. Here is a projection of how Newcastle might line up for that all-important opening fixture based on publicly known transfer links and current squad dynamics:
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Predicted Newcastle United XI vs Aston Villa – Opening Day 2025-26
1. Goalkeeper – James Trafford
The Burnley shot-stopper was close to joining Newcastle last summer before the move collapsed due to a complex swap demand involving Nottingham Forest and Odysseas Vlachodimos. Now, with the goalkeeping situation still needing clarity and depth, Trafford has emerged once again as a top target. A commanding and agile presence, he could finally make his Premier League debut for the Magpies.
2. Right-Back – Tino Livramento
Tino Livramento is rapidly establishing himself as one of the most reliable young full-backs in the league. Despite reported interest from Manchester City — with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano stoking the flames — Newcastle are determined to keep him. At 22, he’s seen as vital to Howe’s system and unlikely to be prised away, even by City’s deep pockets.
3. Centre-Back – Marc Guehi
Long admired by Newcastle, Marc Guehi remains firmly on their radar. The England international, entering the final year of his contract at Crystal Palace, could be available at a reduced price this summer. Previously valued at around £70 million, Palace may be forced to negotiate if they don’t want to lose him for free next year.
4. Centre-Back – Sven Botman
Botman’s early promise at Newcastle was undeniable, helping shore up a previously leaky defence. However, persistent knee injuries have marred his last two seasons. If he can return to full fitness, Botman is a guaranteed starter and a key figure in the heart of defence.
5. Left-Back – Lewis Hall
The young defender endured a frustrating end to last season, with foot surgery in March cutting short what had been a stellar run of form. Once fully fit, Hall is expected not only to cement his place in Newcastle’s starting XI but also to push for a more prominent role in the England setup.
6. Central Midfield – Bruno Guimarães
Appointed club captain last summer, Bruno has flourished under the added responsibility. His leadership and consistency helped guide Newcastle to their first domestic silverware in seven decades, and his influence continues to grow both on and off the pitch.
7. Central Midfield – Sandro Tonali
Since being redeployed as a deep-lying midfielder midway through last season, Tonali has excelled. His tactical intelligence and composure on the ball have brought a new dimension to Newcastle’s midfield. The Italian’s transformation has been crucial in improving the team’s control and tempo.
8. Right Wing – Anthony Elanga
The former Manchester United winger has reignited his career at Nottingham Forest and is now being eyed by Newcastle to add pace and directness to the flanks. Elanga’s electric style fits Howe’s attacking blueprint, but his price tag — thought to be around £50 million — could be a stumbling block.
9. Left Wing – Anthony Gordon
Although the campaign ended on a slightly sour note for Gordon, his performances throughout the season did not go unnoticed. Having been named Newcastle’s Player of the Year just a year ago, Gordon will be eager to rediscover that form and play a vital role in this new campaign.
10. Second Striker / Attacking Midfield – Alexander Isak
Isak, Newcastle’s leading goal scorer, is capable of playing as a No.10 and has done so effectively for Sweden, particularly when paired with Viktor Gyökeres. While Howe may be hesitant to move him away from his traditional striker role, Isak’s intelligence and link-up play make this positional shift a viable option.
11. Striker – João Pedro
Newcastle have maintained long-standing interest in João Pedro, having initially tried to sign him from Watford three years ago. Now a Brighton star, the Brazilian could command a hefty fee – reportedly around £70 million. Still, his blend of creativity, flair, and finishing ability make him a compelling target for a team looking to add depth and unpredictability in attack.