“Newcastle Just Quietly Signed a Teenager Who’s LITERALLY Mbappé 2.0 – Harvey Barnes Already Looks Like a Championship Player Next to Him!”
Eddie Howe has finally claimed his first Premier League victory over Pep Guardiola, succeeding on his 19th attempt as Newcastle United beat Manchester City 2-1 at St James’ Park.
The win was fully deserved, driven by a superb Harvey Barnes brace that lifted the Magpies on their return to league action.
Barnes, who has now scored six goals in all competitions despite making only five Premier League starts this season, was the standout performer.
Journalist Henry Winter labelled his display “clinical” as the winger struck twice in quick succession past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Across the match, Barnes registered four shots, won three duels and attempted three direct dribbles, posing a constant threat.
Newcastle’s only concern will be his fitness, as Barnes has missed 38 games through injury over the previous three campaigns.
Still, his current form could secure him a regular place in Howe’s starting lineup during the busy winter period.
Behind Barnes, however, Newcastle have another exciting prospect emerging.
Howe has long shown a willingness to promote young talent, having introduced Lewis Miley at 17 and recently rewarding 18-year-old Sean Neave with a place on the bench against City.
Attention is now turning to South Korean prodigy Seung Soo-Park, who may be the next academy star to make the leap.
Park rose to prominence at Suwon Bluewings, becoming the youngest player in Korean league history at 17 and producing one goal and three assists in 28 appearances.
His explosive pace has earned him comparisons to Kylian Mbappé from Asian football expert John Duerden.
Park impressed during Newcastle’s pre-season, completing three dribbles against Espanyol and winning duels versus Tottenham.
Academy coach Steven Harper has praised the youngster’s maturity, further fuelling belief that senior minutes may come his way soon.
Although Anthony Gordon and Anthony Elanga currently occupy the left-wing pecking order, the door could open.
Elanga has yet to score this season, while Barnes can be inconsistent, having finished the 2023/24 campaign with just five league goals.
For now, Howe will ride Barnes’ hot streak —but long-term, Park may emerge as Newcastle’s next superstar.
