Less than 2 months ago, Newcastle defeated Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final to win their first domestic championship in 70 years.
The truth is that Newcastle's season has had many big matches. That is a measure of how far they have gone recently. The fight for a ticket to the Champions League next season is just one of many challenges that the "Magpies" have to face.
Before the match against Chelsea, coach Eddie Howe was still as calm as usual in a packed press conference room about his experience when watching Bryan Adams perform last night.
"I really want to introduce him, if you want to see a live performance." This is the answer to a direct question about Howe's unrelated experience of his favorite football this season.
The only thing the English strategist did not answer any details about Newcastle's injury problem before the match at St James' Park against Chelsea. Howe cannot give The Blues an advantage even in the smallest way.
This weekend will be a big time for Newcastle. But even if Newcastle lost to Enzo Maresca's strong side, they still have two more chances when facing Arsenal away and Everton at home. Remember, Newcastle have beaten Arsenal three times this season without conceding a goal.
Membership in the Champions League is extremely important for Newcastle as they try to keep up with the big teams. If they miss two consecutive seasons, they will make things difficult for themselves.
Howe said Newcastle's transfer strategy will not be affected even if they do not have a ticket to the Champions League. However, it is certain that they will lack the comfort in the transfer market as the additional £40 million will allow.
Of course, if they qualify, they will not be able to spend that bonus immediately. But the Magpies could get ahead, just like they did when they signed Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall in 2023.
In addition to bonuses, it is important that Newcastle wants potential trading partners to see their ambitions. This is a real way to get them on par with their competitors.
But until they get the same changes as their opponents, they will always have to chase the shadow. Remember, Newcastle brought in less than 1/3 of their revenue last year than Manchester City. And participating in the Champions League is an important link in all that.
Keeping Newcastle's big stars (Alexander Isak, Sandro Tonali, Guimaraes and Gordon) will be much simpler as they have the appeal of the Champions League.
"Ch Chelsea have given us one of the most difficult matches of the season. They are gradually regaining their form recently, and coach Enzo Maresca is very sharp in terms of tactics.
They have very dangerous attacking players who can cause damage if we don't play well. We need to prepare carefully and do the strategy perfectly," Howe said before the match against Chelsea.
