Anthony Gordon To Start? | 4-3-3 Newcastle United Predicted Starting Lineup Against Aston Villa | OneFootball

Newcastle United will start the Premier League 2025/26 season against Aston Villa at Villa Park on 16 August. The club performed brilliantly last season and finished fifth in the points table. This is the second consecutive year that the team will play in the Champions League. Manager Eddie Howe will be looking to get off to a better start this time so that the team’s confidence remains high right from the opening match. In the last few years, Newcastle United have shown stability and consistency in their performances in the league. They have proved their strength in big matches of late. Now the question is what kind of playing XI Howe can field in the first match of the new season.

4-3-3 Newcastle United Predicted Starting Lineup Against Aston Villa

Defense

Nick Pope is almost certain to be at the goalpost. His shot-stopping ability and control in the box strengthen the team and the backline. Kieran Trippier at right back will make important contributions for the Magpies with his crossing and experience. The centre back pairing could be Fabian Schar and Dan Burn, where Schar will initiate build-up and attacks from the back with his passing and positioning, while Burn will eliminate threats with his physical traits and aerial ability. At left back, Tino Livramento is likely to feature, who will be active on both ends of the pitch with his pace and defensive awareness.

Midfield

In midfield, Bruno Guimaraes will control the game in the anchor role. His job will be to maintain the rhythm with ball recovery and accurate line-breaking passing. Sandro Tonali will be in the box-to-box role, where he will contribute equally in both defence and attack. Joelinton’s presence gives the team an edge in physical strength and pressing. These three midfielders can prove to be important links in Eddie Howe’s game plan, as energy and discipline in this area are needed to compete with Aston Villa’s midfield.

Attack

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United during the pre-season friendly match between Newcastle United and Atletico Madrid at St James’ Park on August 09, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

On the left wing, Harvey Barnes will challenge Villa’s defence with his pace and dribbling abilities. On the right wing, Anthony Elanga can prove to be dangerous with his runs in behind the defence and decisive chance-creating ability. In the centre, Anthony Gordon can play the role of false nine or striker, where his job will be to create chances and score goals himself in the absence of Isak. This trio will play a key role in creating space for each other and stretching the Aston Villa backline. Howe will hope that this attack can apply pressure from the opening minutes and turn the match in Newcastle’s favour. Alexander Isak is unlikely to feature, as he is linked with a move away from Newcastle this summer.