The Champions League last 16 draw is about to take place and one club are happy to have avoided a potential tie against Manchester City.
No team have been forced to play Manchester City as many times this season as Newcastle United, with the sides meeting twice in the Premier League, as well as the Carabao Cup.
The clashes between the teams will not stop there as they will face off at St James’ Park in the FA Cup fifth round next month.
However, being drawn against each other in the Champions League round of 16 was never a possibility, much to the delight of Eddie Howe.
Eddie Howe jokes about not having to play Manchester City
Newcastle claimed a victory over Man City earlier this season, but Pep Guardiola’s team defeated them in both legs of the League Cup semi-final and last weekend in the Premier League.
With this in mind, Howe is very happy that the Magpies do not have to face the possibility of drawing Man City in the Champions League.
Ahead of the draw on Friday, he told BBC Sport: “Really special and really positive for us. I think we are just grateful we can’t get Man City! We are looking forward to what the draw brings and we will look forward to that game when it comes around.”
Man City are still a feared opponent
Howe’s comment was clearly intended to amuse the media, but there was certainly an element of truth in what he said.
Manchester City are a club with strength all over the pitch and there are plenty of teams who would prefer to avoid having to face them.
It is great to see that even when City have not been at their best, they can still strike feat into the hearts of their rivals.
