(Credit: Imago / Hasan Karim - Breaking Media)

Oliver Walton

Thu 19 March 2026 6:30, UK

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Kieran Trippier may have played himself out of signing a new Newcastle United contract after a woeful performance against Barcelona.

Newcastle crashed out of the Champions League at the round of 16 stage with a 7-2 defeat to Barcelona at Camp Nou to lose 8-3 on aggregate.

Eddie Howe’s side had clawed their way back to 2-2 inside the first half an hour on Wednesday night, but ultimately proved second best as the hosts hit four past Aaron Ramsdale in the second half.

Trippier is nearing the end of his Magpies deal, but was handed a start at right-back ahead of Tino Livramento as Howe opted for experience and nous from the off.

Many fans will not want the veteran defender to start Newcastle’s next match, and he may well have decided his own future after a key moment swung the game in Barca’s favour.

Kieran Trippier’s moment of madness changed the game in Barcelona’s favour

Trippier failed to deal with Raphinha throughout the first half, particularly on the transition, as his lack of pace was exploited by the speedy Brazilian forward.

Newcastle’s shoddy defending was, however, equalled out by some clinical Magpies attacking, as Elanga’s brace gave them hope of heading into the break with the scores level.

That was until Trippier switched off for a split second and allowed Raphinha a free run on goal before hauling him down in his own box and conceding a penalty.

The 35-year-old was arguably lucky not to be sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity by Francois Letexier, and Lamine Yamal slotted home from the spot.

Howe hauled Trippier off at half time to save him from being shown a red, but the damage was done as Barcelona seized the initiative after the penalty and scored four without reply.

He was not completely at fault for the loss, of course, but Trippier’s moment of madness swung the game in the hosts’ favour and he looked completely out of his depth in the first half.

Trippier is out of contract at St James’ Park this summer, and a poor performance like this could seal his fate as being destined to leave.

Livramento situation will play a big part in Newcastle’s Trippier decision

Livramento did not exactly cover himself in glory either against Barca, but has proven himself to be one of the best right-backs in the Premier League, when fit, over the last few seasons.

Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Newcastle want Livramento to sign a new contract as soon as possible, with Man City closely tracking his progress ahead of a potential move.

If the England international is prised away from Tyneside this summer, then Newcastle are likely to want Trippier to stay so they do not need to make two signings in the same position.

However, if the Magpies are able to keep hold of Livramento, then surely Trippier will depart with the best wishes of all at the club.