Newcastle thrash Man United to seal historic league double

Newcastle United delivered a commanding performance to keep their Champions League hopes alive, securing a comprehensive 4-1 victory over a struggling Manchester United side at St James’ Park.

With head coach Eddie Howe absent due to illness and reportedly hospitalised since Friday, his assistants Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones stepped in and guided the Magpies to a historic league double over United, their first since the 1930-31 season.

Manchester United, under increasing pressure, made a bold call with manager Ruben Amorim opting to bench under-fire goalkeeper André Onana following his errors in the Europa League. His replacement, Altay Bayındır, however, failed to impress, his misplaced pass led directly to Newcastle’s fourth goal, as Bruno Guimarães capitalised on Joelinton’s assist in the 77th minute.

Newcastle took control from the outset, opening the scoring with a well-orchestrated move as Alexander Isak’s clever lob released Sandro Tonali, who coolly slotted past Bayındır. The Italian midfielder nearly doubled the advantage with a long-range strike, and Isak also tested the United keeper as the Magpies pressed relentlessly.

Despite being second-best throughout the first half, Manchester United briefly drew level through Alejandro Garnacho, who finished calmly in the 37th minute for the visitors’ first league goal in three games.

The reprieve was short-lived. Newcastle regained the lead early in the second half when Harvey Barnes tucked in Jacob Murphy’s low cross. The winger then extended the advantage with a clinical finish after a costly slip from Noussair Mazraoui.

The afternoon worsened for United when Bayındır’s errant clearance gifted Newcastle their fourth, sealing a forgettable trip to Tyneside for the Red Devils.

Manchester United also suffered a potential injury blow as striker Joshua Zirkzee limped off with a suspected hamstring issue. The defeat, United’s 10th in 21 league games under Amorim—sees them drop to 14th in the standings, level on points with Everton but trailing on goal difference, and just three points above the relegation zone.

In contrast, Newcastle climb to fourth place, just a point behind third-placed Nottingham Forest, as they continue to gather momentum in their top-four push.