There aren't many Premier League fixtures that have thrown up as much drama as this one over the last three decades but never has it been played against a backdrop like this summer's Alexander Isak transfer drama.
There won't just be an edge at St James' Park tonight but animosity, all centring around the starring figure who'll be absent. Where will he be in a week's time?
"I think Newcastle versus Liverpool is always a very special game," said Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.
"I can picture previous Premier League encounters over the years with vivid memories of moments and drama in the games and this will be no different.
"Of course, I’m not stupid, I know what’s around the fixture. I know the importance of it - it’s our first home game of the season. All of these things just make it extra special."
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A win would undoubtedly also feel extra special for the Magpies, even if Howe was keen to ensure he didn't add to hostilities before the game.
"I don't think it would be sending out a message \[to win\] without Alex," he said.
"You send messages every day and with every performance. We are looking to start the season well. Alex's situation is irrelevant really. When the game starts, it's about us playing to the best of our ability and showing the fighting spirit we did against Aston Villa."
Howe's side have always shown their fight on the pitch but have they demonstrated this summer that they won't be bullied off it?
"I don’t necessarily think that the club are trying to make that stance, I think they are just reacting to this situation and making decisions based on what they think is the best for Newcastle United," said Howe.
"They are being strong on the valuations of players and on how a player leaves the football club, all of these things are important.
"They are important in this situation and also the future."
Had things turned out differently earlier this summer, the forward lines of both sides could have looked very different tonight.
If Newcastle were successful in their pursuit of Hugo Ekitike, Isak's exit may well have been sanctioned if Liverpool had matched United's valuation.
As it was, it was Liverpool who won the battle for Ekitike, who made a hugely impressive start to his Premier League career with a goal on his debut against Bournemouth last week.
“I think there's no doubting that I really like Hugo and have done for a number of years," said Howe of a striker who Newcastle have tried and failed to sign on several occasions.
“He's someone that we've tracked for a long time. He's got really good qualities, and I think he showed that in his first Premier League game, that very good debut against Bournemouth.
“He's got really good movement. He's intelligent. He's good in the air. He scores goals. Very good finisher. Scores off both feet.
“So, I think he's got a load of qualities that will serve him really well in the Premier League. Our job will be to keep him quiet and to try and control him. But certainly, he's going to be a threat this year.”
Liverpool boss Arne Slot said of Newcastle: “We played them three times last season and twice their intensity levels were above us. I don't think they need to add anything to be intense at St. James' Park.
“They're a very good team and can make it a fight. They're one of the best teams and one of the most difficult teams to face in the league."