Sir David Beckham is convinced Newcastle United can make an impact in this season’s Champions League.
Newcastle United begin their second Champions League campaign under Eddie Howe on Thursday when they host Barcelona in a truly blockbuster tie.
It is a fantastic game with which to mark the club’s return to the grandest stage of European competition and surely few would bet against them making a statement when the Spanish champions come to St James’ Park.
Indeed, Newcastle thrashed Paris Saint-Germain in this competition almost two years ago now and it would be foolish to bet against them doing something similar on Thursday.
Howe’s side restored some confidence as Newcastle beat Wolves 1-0 in the Premier League, so head into the game with renewed hope.
The club endured a difficult summer but Beckham believes they can surprise a few on the Champions League stage.
Sir David Beckham is seen before Inter Miami play Al Ahly FC in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
Photo by Hector Vivas – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
David Beckham backs Newcastle United in the Champions League
The Manchester United and England legend was asked to give his predictions for the upcoming season in the Champions League.
He named former club Real Madrid as his winners and backed Kylian Mbappe to be the top scorer.
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When asked to name his surprise for the tournament, Beckham backed Howe’s team.
He said while speaking on CBS Sports: “I think that people are already writing Newcastle off.
“I think Newcastle, they’re a good team and I think they’ve got some good players and they’re very together as a team and as fans and as a club. I think they could surprise a few people.”
David Beckham is a huge fan of Newcastle United’s supporters
It’s not the first time the 50-year-old has spoken positively about the Magpies.
Having come up against the Toon Army for so many years during his time at Old Trafford, perhaps the most famous footballer in history knows all about the club’s supporters.
Previously, Beckham has revealed he has a lot of respect for Newcastle fans.
Speaking on a series called Career in Shirts by Classic Football Shirts on YouTube, he said: “I’ve always loved Newcastle as a club. I love the fans, I love the way they are.
“We played up in Newcastle for England once and they were amazing.”
Hopefully, Beckham is right. It would be fantastic to see Newcastle go on a reasonably deep run in this season’s competition.