Friendly — Team K League 1-0 Newcastle — Match Report: Winless still

Newcastle United suffered a 1-0 defeat to a K League All-Star side in South Korea, extending their winless pre-season run to three consecutive losses. This result raises significant concerns for manager Eddie Howe ahead of the new Premier League season.

The match's only goal came in the 36th minute when Kim Jin-gyu curled a shot past goalkeeper Nick Pope from the edge of the area, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Newcastle during a central break. This contributed to Newcastle conceding nine goals across their three pre-season friendlies.

Compounding the team's problems, midfielder Joe Willock sustained an ankle injury in the second half and had to be carried off. While manager Eddie Howe downplayed the severity post-match, calling it "not major," the injury adds to a growing list of squad issues. These include a lack of incoming transfers during a frustrating summer, mounting player absences, and the looming potential departure of striker Alexander Isak.

Isak remained absent from the squad, having expressed interest in a move away amid reported interest from Liverpool. Howe stated he was unaware of any official bids but acknowledged the striker's continued absence, combined with the lack of a replacement, is overshadowing the pre-season and casting doubt ahead of Newcastle's Champions League return. Youngster Will Osula started again in Isak's place but struggled to impact the game offensively, reflecting the lack of alternatives.

Newcastle's squad depth is being severely tested. Beyond Isak's absence and Willock's injury, the team is missing Sven Botman (groin injury) and has sold Sean Longstaff to Leeds United. Emil Krafth started at center-back alongside Jamaal Lascelles, and Kim's goal exploited the space between them, highlighting the unresolved need for a new right-sided center-back. Despite interest in targets, no signings have been completed. The only major summer addition before Aaron Ramsdale's loan, Anthony Elanga, was limited to a second-half appearance with minimal impact.

Newcastle's next pre-season fixture is against Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan before they return to Europe for their final two friendlies.