Newcastle face Barcelona lock horns for the first time since March 2003, after goals from Patrick Kluivert and Thiago Motta secured a 2-0 win for the Magpies.
Newcastle were eliminated in the group stage of the Champions League’s previous format in 2023/24 and will be hoping for a much better showing in the new format this season.
Howe excited for 'incredible' game against Barcelona
Howe firstly spoke on the size of the game and how he is preparing for a clash that is set to be one of the biggest games of the Champions League so far.
"It’s a historic fixture. As soon as we realised we were drawn against Barcelona, it had a magical feel to it.
"It'll be an amazing game to experience. I'm focused on tactical preparation and making sure we deliver a good performance. I’m really excited to sample the atmosphere. I know it will be incredible."
Barcelona pose a real threat
He was then asked about Barcelona and the threat they pose, even if star boy Lamine Yamal has been ruled out for the clash.
"A very good technical team, very good in possession, very comfortable on the ball, all their players look at ease in that respect.
"A lot of pace in wide areas, they're free scoring and started the season very well. All of those things lead to us having to defend very well, so the game plan has to be strong.
"We've started the game very well defensively, so a continuation of that is going to be needed."
New Champions League format is good for Newcastle
The new Champions League format confused many when it was first introduced, but after last season, many have warmed to it, including How,e who stated that more games against top sides will help Newcastle.
"I like the format. More games is good for us. We're learning as a team and adapting to the competition so the more we can face the competition the better we can become.
"Whether it's easier to qualify or not, I don't know. That remains to be seen in terms of our strength and how well we do.
"The players have to show they're good enough to play at this level - excelling at this level."
Yamal being ruled out is a 'shame'
Finally, Howe commented on the absence of Yamal and revealed that he thinks it is a shame that he will not come up against one of the best young players in world football.
"For me, it's a shame he's not playing, disappointed we don't get to see him at his best. But whoever they play, they have real pace in wide areas, international players who will challenge us in different ways."