Joelinton
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY – 10 DECEMBER, 2025: Joelinton, Ibrahim Maza – UEFA Champions League, match Bayer 04 Leverkusen vs Newcastle United at BayArena.
Newcastle United moved a step closer to the Champions League knockout rounds this week, and Joelinton made sure his return did not go unnoticed.
The Brazilian midfielder scored in the 3-2 win over Qarabag in the play-offs on Tuesday, a result that confirmed Newcastle’s place in the last 16. It was a timely contribution. Joelinton had missed six matches with an adductor injury and only recently returned to action.
Speaking to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, he made clear how significant the goal felt after weeks on the sidelines.
“This is a very important goal for me, a goal that gives me even more confidence in my return after injury,” he said. “I was out for a while and that is bad for any player, so it was a complicated moment. I had to work on my mindset and focus on coming back at the best level possible.”
How confidence is returning at key stage
Joelinton’s numbers this season underline his importance to Eddie Howe’s side. He has made 32 appearances in all competitions, scoring six goals – two in the Premier League, two in the League Cup and two in the Champions League.
However, the recent injury disrupted his rhythm at a crucial point in the campaign. Newcastle United are fighting on multiple fronts, and his physical presence in midfield is central to their balance.
The timing of his comeback therefore matters. Newcastle now wait to learn whether they will face Chelsea or Barcelona in the Champions League last 16. The draw takes place on Friday.
World Cup motivation in background
Joelinton
Kallang-Singapore:27JUL2025-Joelinton #7 Player of Newcastle in action during Festival of Football between Arsenal against Newcastle
There is also a personal objective driving him through the final months of the season.
Joelinton’s last Brazil call-up came in October 2025, when Carlo Ancelotti selected him for friendlies against South Korea and Japan. Since then, he has not featured for the national side.
He admitted he knows the window is narrowing ahead of the World Cup.
“I know we are in the final stretch of call-ups for the World Cup and I have the dream of being there, wearing the Brazil shirt and representing my country. So I know everything I do here at the club can reflect on that. I am focused on giving my best every day, in training and in matches, to maintain a high level of performance,” he concluded.
That renewed focus is good news for Newcastle United. A fully fit and motivated Joelinton raises the team’s level, and surely he wants to deliver. If he maintains this form through the run-in, it will not only boost their European ambitions but also strengthen his case for a return to Brazil’s squad.