Diehard Newcastle United supporters would have been intrigued when the club confirmed a pre-season trip to Benfica on July 26. An opportunity to follow the Magpies abroad used to be a regular occurrence before the Mike Ashley era, with photographs of a jam-packed San Siro away end evoking nostalgia whenever they do the rounds on social media.
The cancellation of the Ohio Cup has forced Newcastle to rethink their schedule and contests against Atalanta and Athletic Bilbao will provide stern tests ahead of the 2022-23 campaign. Those who follow United on the road religiously will be considering a plane to Portugal next month - with yesteryear's heartbreak distinct in their minds.
Astonishingly, the two Europa League clashes in April 2013 are the only times Newcastle and Benfica have gone head-to-head in a competitive fixture. Despite taking a 12th-minute lead at the Estadio da Luz through Papiss Cisse, the Magpies were brushed aside 3-1 and could only manage a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park to crash out of the competition.
TAKE PART IN OUR BIG TOON SURVEY: We want your verdict on all the major topics on and off the pitch
Nine years on, this remains Newcastle’s most-recent outing in European competition.
The £300million Saudi-backed takeover has given supporters - especially those of a younger ilk - hope that the days of continental escapades can return. Jollies to Brugge, Lisbon and Bordeaux were outliers in an otherwise disillusioned 14-year reign of apathy under Ashley.
Deep down, Newcastle fans knew their flirtation with Europe that season would amount to a fling rather than a long-lasting relationship. However, given the ambition of the new regime, it is expected there will not be a decade-long gap between continental campaigns the next time qualification is secured.
Another interesting dynamic is the transfer saga surrounding Darwin Nunez. The Magpies have been frequently linked with the red-hot Uruguayan, who bagged 26 goals in 28 games last year.
Manchester United are also touted as keen admirers and Toon fans will get their first look at Nunez next month - regardless of what colours he is wearing. Depending on their age, using a passport for footballing purposes will trigger fond memories or feel completely alien to supporters. But the dream is for everyone on Tyneside to get a taste of cheaper beer, warmer weather and foreign opposition in the coming years.
We want to hear your thoughts, so LOG IN and leave your comment below
