[Newcastle United](https://readnewcastle.com/2026/08/23/nico-gonzalez-stance-joining-newcastle-united-confirmed/) face one of their toughest tests in the very first game of the season as they prepare to host Liverpool at St James’ Park. Both clubs are stepping into a fresh era under new management, making this fixture a must-watch contest on opening weekend even for neutrals.
German coach Matthias Jaissle is replacing Eddie Howe on the Magpies’ bench. In the opposite dugout, Andoni Iraola is taking charge of Liverpool in a competitive game for the first time as well. So, all eyes will be on Tyneside to see how both teams adapt.
Newcastle United fans will certainly be hoping for a strong home performance despite a poor series of displays in pre-season coming into this contest.
Liverpool have their own selection headaches to deal with, which might level the playing field to a certain degree. But there is no hiding that Newcastle United’s depth looks paper-thin in key areas.
Can Newcastle United pull off an opening-day upset in front of the home crowd? It is a huge ask, but this has been the weekend for it. Both Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United suffered defeats that no one expected.
Newcastle United vs Liverpool is set to take place on Sunday, 23 August. The match will kick off at 4:30 pm UK time at St James’ Park.
In the United Kingdom, the match will be shown on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League. They can also watch it on the Sky Sports app.
Fans in the United States can watch the match on NBC/Peacock. In India, it will be available on Jio Hotstar and on Stan Sport in Australia.
It will be very interesting to see how Jaissle sets up his side against Liverpool. Right now, it is almost impossible to predict how the Magpies will look. Newcastle United have undergone significant squad changes over the summer transfer window. Several of their best performers have left, and have been replaced by those who might not be ready to deliver at the Premier League level just yet.
Can Newcastle United pull off a memorable result at St James’ Park to kickstart the Jaissle era? It won’t be easy, but the home crowd will undoubtedly play a massive role. Whatever the result, this game will give us a much clearer picture of what to expect from the Magpies this season.