[Newcastle United](https://readnewcastle.com/2026/08/22/signed-official-contract-newcastle-uniteds-next-signing-complete/) will begin their Premier League campaign with a big one as they take on Liverpool at St James’ Park. It is the start of a new era for both clubs.
Andoni Iraola is set to take charge of Liverpool in a competitive game for the first time. The same is true for Matthias Jaissle and Newcastle United, although the German manager has gotten much less time with his team as it was only in the middle of pre-season that Eddie Howe left.
Of course, Newcastle United have faced their issues this summer, with no European football to offer. In fact, both these teams have been involved in a transfer tussle.
It had looked like Newcastle United were set to sign Victor Munoz and everything was in place. That was only for Liverpool to swoop in at the last minute and get the Spanish winger.
Their might be some hard feelings there. At the very least, the Newcastle United fans won’t be happy with how it turned out. On the other hand, ahead of their Premier League opener, Liverpool have announced a transfer exit.
It is one of their long-time players leaving. Liverpool have [announced](https://x.com/LFC/status/2090869039791014382) that Curtis Jones has completed a move to Inter Milan on a permanent basis.
The 25-year-old came through the club’s youth ranks and played 228 times for the Reds. So, his exit will weaken the overall squad, and not just on the pitch.
This is not a player who was just sitting on the bench and not involved. Jones is a full England international and played 49 times, even last season for Liverpool.
Firstly, one has to admit that Liverpool are the favourites going into this contest, even though we have not seen what Iraola’s team looks like in a competitive game yet.
Newcastle United are coming out of a chaotic pre-season. They have lost their long-time manager and their three very best players within weeks of each other.
The results under Jaissle have not been particularly impressive either. To be fair, one should not read too much into pre-season, but even the performances left a lot to be desired.
There needs to be a recognition that Jaissle currently has not been provided the tools to succeed. Quite a few more additions are needed all across the pitch. And unfortunately, they have not been made in time for the Premier League opener.