Newcastle are going through a transitional period, having seen manager Eddie Howe and several key players leave the club this summer. After a disappointing campaign last season, new manager Matthias Jaissle has a tough task on his hands if he is to turn the Magpies into European and cup challengers in 2027.
There have also been some big changes within the Liverpool camp this summer, as Andoni Iraola has taken the vacant manager's seat. At the same time, long-serving legend Mo Salah has left the club to join Turkish side Trabzonspor.
The Magpies don't have much luck when it comes to games against Liverpool. Barring that League Cup final victory in 2025, Newcastle have lost nine of their last 10 league meetings with the Merseysiders. Last season, Liverpool ran out 3-2 winners at St James' Park and 4-1 winners in January's reverse fixture.
Newcastle have not looked good in pre-season, losing their last three matches against Everton, Leverkusen and Strasbourg, though the last one was via a penalty shootout. Poor defensive displays have left cause for concern amongst the Toon Army faithful, especially with a tough first game of the season fast approaching this weekend.
After signing for Liverpool from Newcastle for big money last summer, Alexander Isak flattered to deceive in his debut season for the Reds, scoring three times in 14 Premier League appearances.
The Swedish international, who scored 54 league goals in almost three seasons with the Magpies, now has a full pre-season under his belt and will be looking to make a big statement against his former employers on Sunday afternoon.
Newcastle 1-3 Liverpool
