Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe believes his team's hard-fought 2-1 victory over reigning champions Manchester City could mark a crucial turning point in their Premier League season.
A Much-Needed Victory at St James' Park
The Magpies secured a vital three points on Sunday 23rd November 2025, ending a disappointing run of back-to-back defeats against West Ham and Brentford. The win was spearheaded by a decisive brace from winger Harvey Barnes, whose second-half double secured a memorable victory for the home side.
When questioned about whether this result could provide the foundation for an improved run of form, Howe responded with optimism. "That's how we're trying to look at it," he stated. "We want to try to build momentum in our season, we want to try to build the confidence back to where it has been historically."
Howe's Personal Milestone and Team Focus
The victory represented a significant personal milestone for Howe, being his first league win over Manchester City in 19 attempts and his first ever against City boss Pep Guardiola in 17 meetings. Despite this, the Newcastle manager insisted the personal achievement was irrelevant compared to what it meant for the club.
"No, it genuinely doesn't," Howe said when asked if ending his winless run against City meant anything personally. "It means something to beat Manchester City for Newcastle. That's the thing. My individual stuff is irrelevant, although I have to say we've had some painful moments over the years, really painful moments."
Match Analysis: Barnes' Brace Secures Points
The match-winning performance unfolded through careful build-up and clinical finishing. Barnes broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute after excellent work from Brazilian duo Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes created the opportunity.
Newcastle's lead proved short-lived as City defender Ruben Dias equalised just five minutes later, with his shot taking a deflection off Fabian Schar on its way into the net.
However, Barnes had the final say, scoring the winner with 20 minutes remaining after stabbing home from close range when Guimaraes' header rebounded off the crossbar.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola remained diplomatic in defeat, refusing to criticise referee decisions regarding a first-half penalty shout for a Schar challenge on Phil Foden, or Gianluigi Donnarumma's appeals for a foul in the build-up to Newcastle's winning goal.
"No, never disappointed," Guardiola insisted. "We gave everything and we wanted to make a step like we have done in the last two months but it's not an easy place to come after the international break. But there's a long, long way to go."
The result leaves Newcastle looking upward in the table, with Howe and his players hoping this performance against elite opposition can indeed become the catalyst for their season's revival.
