Newcastle strike worries persist after Atletico loss

Newcastle's 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in a late pre-season game highlights a need for a true No 9 and hints at transfer pressure ahead of the new season.

Newcastle face striker gap after defeat by Atletico Madrid

Newcastle signed off their pre-season with a 2-0 defeat against Atletico Madrid at St James' Park, with Julian Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann scoring after the break. The result leaves Eddie Howe's side with zero wins from six this summer and provides fresh talking points as the season approaches. Anthony Gordon was withdrawn late with what looked like a muscle problem, adding another layer of concern for a forward line already missing Alexander Isak and short on a trusted central striker.

The front three looked packed with pace and effort but lacked a clear goal threat without a designated No 9. Anthony Elanga and Harvey Barnes operated on the wings while Gordon took a central role, yet the chances rarely threatened the visitors. On the defence, Milan defender Malick Thiaw is close to joining for about £34.3 million, which would push Newcastle’s squad depth to five and address back-line competition. The deal could also raise questions about the club’s transfer priorities, given the ongoing debate about a true number nine and how to balance the attack with the current personnel. Tonali stood out in midfield, showing the athleticism and technical quality to drive play from a deeper position, while Joelinton looked solid as he recovered from a knee issue and Bruno Guimaraes returns soon to complete a familiar midfield unit. Kieran Trippier continued to demonstrate class and reliability, signaling he will be a key starter as the season opens.

Taken together, the defeat lays bare two tensions that could shape Newcastle’s campaign. First is the urgent need for a proven goal scorer who can lead the line and take pressure off the wide players. Second is how the squad will balance efficiency in attack with the ongoing defensive rebuild, especially if Thiaw arrives and is slotted into a back five. The club’s willingness to spend in defense is clear, but fans will watch whether that investment translates into faster, more reliable goals and a sharper attacking dynamic. Howe must navigate a crowded forward line while keeping faith with Tonali in midfield, whose form could determine how quickly Newcastle can translate pre-season work into league results. Early fixtures will test whether the current system, built around pace and pressing, can evolve into a more potent threat with a central striker in place. The question remains whether the squad can adapt quickly enough to a demanding schedule while meeting the expectations set by a sizable summer outlay.

Highlights

The coming weeks will reveal if this spending and rebalancing can align with Howe's vision.