Qudus SalihuEddie Howe has officially confirmed that Newcastle United will be without key midfielder Joelinton for their high-stakes Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain tonight. The Brazilian powerhouse, who has been instrumental in the Magpies’ midfield engine room, was forced off during the second half of Sunday’s Premier League defeat to Aston Villa. Following a medical assessment, Howe revealed that a scan confirmed a groin injury that will sideline the player for several weeks, effectively ruling him out of this crucial European fixture and upcoming domestic ties against Liverpool and Manchester City. While Joelinton’s absence is a confirmed blow, uncertainty still surrounds captain Bruno Guimarães, who is facing a late fitness test after an ankle injury kept him out of domestic action.
The timing of these injuries couldn’t be worse for Newcastle as they aim to secure automatic qualification for the Champions League knockout stages in the French capital. However, the pre-match tension has been further heightened by explosive rumors circulating in the background. Reports have surfaced suggesting a “secret meeting” between a top Newcastle star and representatives of a rival European club. While Howe focused his press conference strictly on the tactical challenges posed by the reigning French champions and the fitness of his squad, the speculation regarding long-term player departures continues to loom over St. James’ Park as the January transfer window draws to a close. Despite the off-field distractions and the loss of Joelinton’s physical presence in the middle of the park, Howe remains adamant that his squad must rise to the challenge. The manager emphasized the need for resilience and a “warrior attitude” from his remaining players to overcome the odds at the Parc des Princes. With the stakes at an all-time high, Newcastle fans are left hoping that the squad can channel the frustration of these injury setbacks into a defiant performance on one of Europe’s grandest stages.
Qudus Salihu
Rabiu Aminu
