Newcastle’s Striker Crisis Worsens as Key Absence Compounds Atletico Defeat – Craig Hope

Newcastle’s Pre-Season Ends with Defeat: Key Takeaways
(Image: Newcastle fell 2-0 to Atletico Madrid at St James’ Park in their final pre-season outing.)

Newcastle wrapped up their winless pre-season with a 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid, courtesy of second-half goals from Julián Álvarez and Antoine Griezmann. With the Premier League just a week away, here are the major talking points from Craig Hope’s analysis:

1. Gordon Injury Sparks Concern
Anthony Gordon’s late exit with a muscle injury overshadowed the result. The forward, deployed as a makeshift striker amid Alexander Isak’s uncertain future, limped off after a tackle and headed straight down the tunnel. His fitness will be critical for Newcastle, who are already light up front. Gordon had been sharp this summer, and his potential absence adds pressure on Eddie Howe’s attacking options.

(Image: Gordon leaves the pitch gingerly, deepening Newcastle’s striker crisis.)

2. Striker Shortage Exposed
Newcastle’s front three of Gordon, Anthony Elanga, and Harvey Barnes lacked cutting edge despite their pace. The trio, all natural wingers, failed to threaten Atletico’s defense consistently. Isak’s absence highlighted the need for a proven No. 9, with the Magpies’ attack appearing disjointed without a focal point. Gordon’s best position remains on the left, but Howe’s current setup leaves the team relying on temporary solutions.

(Image: Elanga and Barnes struggled to convert speed into meaningful chances.)

3. Thiaw Deal Nears Completion
In brighter news, Newcastle agreed to a £34.3m deal for AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw. The 24-year-old German is set to bolster Howe’s center-back options, providing long-term cover for the aging Fabian Schär. Thiaw’s arrival ends their pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, but fans humorously questioned whether the 6’4” newcomer could moonlight as a striker.

(Image: Thiaw’s imminent signing offers defensive reinforcement for Newcastle.)

4. Tonali Shines in Midfield
Sandro Tonali delivered a standout performance, dominating midfield with his athleticism and precision. The Italian, pivotal last season, outclassed Atletico’s midfielders and appears primed to anchor Newcastle’s engine room. Alongside the returning Bruno Guimarães and a fit-again Joelinton, Tonali’s form could be key to steadying the ship after a turbulent pre-season.

(Image: Tonali’s commanding display offered hope for Newcastle’s midfield stability.)

5. Trippier’s Leadership Vital
Kieran Trippier, facing his former club, reminded fans of his quality at right-back. Despite summer exit rumors, the England international remains crucial. His experience and set-piece delivery will be invaluable as Newcastle navigate a challenging start to the campaign.

Verdict
While pre-season results are seldom definitive, Newcastle’s lack of firepower and defensive reinforcements remain concerns. With Thiaw’s signing pending and key players like Tonali and Trippier in form, Howe must rally his squad quickly. The opener at Aston Villa will test whether lessons have been learned from a disjointed summer.

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