Newcastle brace for season-defining March: Barcelona, both Manchester giants, Chelsea and derby drama await

St James’ Park is bracing itself for a March that could shape the entire narrative of Newcastle United’s campaign, after the club were handed a sequence of fixtures Eddie Howe admits will test the squad to its limits.

The Magpies conclude February tomorrow afternoon against Everton, but all eyes are already fixed on the calendar gauntlet that follows. Within an 18-day span next month, Newcastle will confront Manchester United and Manchester City in the Premier League, tackle Chelsea in the FA Cup fifth round, contest both legs of a UEFA Champions League last-16 tie against Barcelona, and revive local hostilities with a Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland.

Howe, speaking on Friday, underlined the importance of gaining momentum against Everton before the run begins. “We have got to build our rhythm back at St James’ Park,” he said. “Hopefully, now we can build some rhythm and get a good feeling back at our home ground – it is really important for us.”

The manager also praised the Toffees’ resilience on the road, noting their defensive strength under David Moyes’ influence. “Everton have done well on their travels this year. They’re a tough team to beat. Defensively, they have been very strong. Historically, from David’s teams, they’re difficult to score against.”

Newcastle arrive at the junction buoyed by recent form, having won four of their last five matches across all competitions, yet the looming schedule represents the ultimate examination of squad depth and nerve. The two-legged duel with Barcelona pits the Magpies against the Spanish champions and one of Europe’s most decorated sides, while domestic obligations pit them against the Premier League’s Manchester powerhouses and a resurgent Chelsea, all before a derby that carries both regional pride and potential psychological ramifications.

For Howe and his players, the next fortnight’s preparation could determine whether the club’s European dream extends deep into spring or whether domestic objectives remain realistically within reach. March, in short, is no longer a month on the fixture list; it is a referendum on Newcastle’s aspirations.