Eddie Howe conceded that the Champions League exit left Newcastle United “absolutely devastated.” The team aimed to secure a spot in the knockout stages with a victory over AC Milan at St James’ Park, contingent on Paris Saint-Germain failing to win against Borussia Dortmund.
PSG drew 1-1 in Germany, leaving the door open for Newcastle to qualify alongside Dortmund. Despite Joelinton’s first-half goal igniting hope, Christian Pulisic and Samuel Chukwueze’s efforts secured a 2-1 win for Milan, breaking Newcastle hearts.
Speaking to TNT Sports post-game, Howe reflected, “I thought there were some really good bits; we were dominant at times but probably needed the second goal. We didn’t defend the two goals well enough.”
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Describing the intense match, he said, “It was very much end to end. Both teams were desperate to win. We wanted to win the game, and we were trying to head for the Champions League, so we had to be brave. They had to be brave. It made for a very good game. We did create chances, and we’re absolutely devastated not to go through.”
Newcastle’s late defeat dropped them to fourth place in the group, with Milan securing third. Milan will now enter the Europa League knockout round play-offs, aiming to reach the last 16, while Newcastle exits European competition entirely.
Reflecting on the experience, Howe noted, “So much. The value of the squad first and foremost, that’s what’s exposed us—the fact we haven’t had the ability to utilize the squad we’ve created. We’ve gone into games very limited in what we can do, and that hasn’t helped us.”