The start of a new football season is always filled with hope, a chance for a fresh beginning and the dream of building some early momentum.
For Newcastle United, however, the opening weeks have felt less like a smooth takeoff and more like a series of frustrating bumps in the road.
After a transfer window that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last moment, the team has been hit with a string of injuries and suspensions that are testing the squad’s depth sooner than anyone would have liked.
It seems that for every step forward, there has been an unexpected challenge waiting around the corner.
The list of unavailable players is already a concern for manager Eddie Howe. Anthony Gordon, a key figure in the attack, has been missing for the last three Premier League games not due to injury, but because of a suspension.
In the treatment room, the situation is just as tricky. Yoane Wissa is sidelined with a knee problem, and Jacob Ramsey is recovering from an ankle injury; both are not expected back until after the next international break.
The midfield took a hit too, with Joelinton missing the recent goalless draw against Leeds United. These early absences have made it difficult for the team to find a consistent rhythm and build the chemistry that is so vital in the demanding Premier League.
The latest news from the injury front involves a crucial member of the defence, Fabian Schar. The Swiss centre-back suffered a concussion during the team’s 2-1 defeat to Barcelona in a midweek match.
While he may have felt okay initially, the medical staff diagnosed the issue after the game, and the safety protocols for head injuries are very strict and absolutely necessary.
Schar himself took to social media to tell fans that he would be missing a few games. Manager Eddie Howe has now confirmed that the defender is facing a twelve-day layoff. This isn’t a suggestion, but a mandatory break designed to protect the player’s long-term health.
Because of this required recovery period, Schar will officially miss three important matches. The first is Wednesday’s Carabao Cup tie against Bradford City, a game that would have been a chance for some players to get minutes but where his experience would have been valuable.
More significantly, he will also be absent for Sunday’s huge Premier League clash with Arsenal. This is a massive blow for Newcastle, as Schar’s composure and defensive quality are key when facing one of the league’s top attacks.
The timeline means that his expected return will be for the Champions League trip to face Belgian side Union SG next Wednesday, provided he clears all the final medical checks.
Howe explained that all the initial on-pitch checks were clear, which shows how complex head injuries can be, with symptoms sometimes appearing later.
In the meantime, the team must adapt. On a positive note, Schar’s absence gave an opportunity to summer signing Malick Thiaw, who made his debut in the Bournemouth match.
Howe was full of praise for the new defender, calling his performance “very promising” and highlighting the qualities of an “outstanding player.” This silver lining offers some encouragement, as integrating new signings successfully is crucial.
For Newcastle, the early part of this season is becoming a story of resilience, of navigating these early setbacks while hoping that the returning players can provide a boost just as important as any new signing.
