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Just two years after The Magpies' boss watched his initial UCL encounter, and now Howe finds himself on a mission to disrupt continental giants.

Barca's Visit on Tyneside

With the Blaugrana arrived on Wednesday, Hansi Flick’s Spanish title holders displayed little evidence of arrogance. Indeed, their head coach alerted about the ferocious pace his team should expect in the Northeast.

“Last time involved several uncertainties,” stated Eddie. “There was a feeling of being living something new, we loved it but ultimately we didn’t advance. Now, however, the resolve is greater to advance.”

Learning from Earlier Lessons

Howe recalls the French giants being utterly overwhelmed at home in the previous campaign, when they lost 4-1. In those days, the Magpies at times looked slightly like inexperienced European debutants; now they want to prove they are genuine challengers.

Although Howe has wised up considerably since he watched his initial Champions League fixture, the respectable point Newcastle earned in Italy 24 months ago highlighted that the manager wasn’t so inexperienced than outsiders thought.

Squad Strength and Experience

Currently, ahead of the clash to counter the danger posed by Barca's forwards, Marcus Rashford, the Dutch maestro and co, the manager benefits from the bonus of experience. “Each aspect required for a Champions League fixture is different from league matches,” noted Eddie. “The atmosphere is different, the preparation is different. We hadn’t been through that previously however that exposure benefits us today. Our squad’s possibly more capable than it was last time.”

Historic Echoes

The occasion prompts memories of another appearance by Barcelona, back in mid-September 1997. Honoring its anniversary, a club legend is coming from Colombia to be present with the officials. The Colombian star's legendary Champions League three-goal haul versus Louis van Gaal’s squad in Newcastle enabled Newcastle’s side secure a 3-2 triumph against Barcelona. Given that the starting XI boasted global stars, world-class talents and Luis Enrique, it was an incredible result.

Currently, as followers of each team get ready for their fifth meeting in this competition, supporters might also remember the legendary manager. Robson's offspring is also set to be looking on the posh seats with both teams Robson coached with distinction meet once again after a long gap.

Managerial Mind Games

Although Howe aims for a better outcome, he has no intention to disregard Robson’s memory. “We acknowledge ties with Sir Bobby which we wholeheartedly honor,” he said. “That very reason is why this such an iconic fixture. Perhaps I'll tap into the psychology of the match.”

During September 1997, injury prevented the Catalan legend out of action, but the absence of an emerging star named Lamine Yamal on Thursday night creates an enormous hole for Barcelona. While Eddie – who mentioned it was a shame to not compete against the young talent – sees a chance, he needs to remain aware of an opposing manager that possesses his ability to adapt tactical systems seamlessly.

Like Howe, the German is not bound by a single style and, when his time in charge the Bavarian giants, the veteran ex-international manager earned the nickname “a flexible thinker”. This term referred to his ability to combine high pressing with smart buildup, and, at Barcelona, the apparently reborn temporary signing Marcus is clearly thriving being coached by such a adaptable manager.

The feeling is shared. “What a wonderful asset to have Rashford in my team,” said Flick. “His exceptional, unbelievable, qualities.” The Blaugrana could require them.

“I’ve never visited before,” added the manager. “Yet the team inform me it could be the top vibe in the Premier League. I'm ready for a imposing side that presses fiercely. Their manager has performed a fantastic job.”