Newcastle United star reveals Champions League dream after ‘difficult’ start to campaign

Joelinton has revealed his excitement at potentially making his Champions League debut for Newcastle United. The Brazilian missed the draw with AC Milan and victory over PSG through injury but could start against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday night after playing 80 minutes of the win over Crystal Palace at the weekend.

Asked if he was excited about the potential of featuring in the competition for the first time with United, Joelinton said: “Yes I’m very excited to play and hope I start the game…I don’t know [the team]. I feel good. I just want to be with the team and help the guys on the pitch and hope I can make my [Champions League] debut for Newcastle on Wednesday.

“It has been a difficult start of the season for me to not be involved with the guys and help the team in games. But the guys did very well, this team is strong.”

Dortmund are not unfamiliar opponents for Joelinton with the midfielder having played regularly against them during his time at Hoffenheim. He even scored against Dortmund in a 1-1 draw back in 2018.

A win for the Magpies on Wednesday night would see them stay top of their group having taken seven points from their opening three games - a very good return in what has been dubbed the ‘group of death’.

“We have done really well but we have to go game by game like we did last season and the season before.” Joelinton said. “Just think about the next game and not think so long forward and try to do our best every game.”