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Howe had tried numerous approaches.

Previously, Howe had sent out teams that applied intense pressure against Manchester City. He fielded others who adopted deeper defensive positions. Various tactical setups were attempted, none proving successful.

Howe was barely exaggerating when he said "we've tried everything" ahead of the weekend fixture.

But he discovered a solution.

After suffering a disappointing defeat at Brentford prior to the international break, Newcastle required a response, The Newcastle management created a blueprint to finally defeat Guardiola's team.

The strategy paid dividends with a 2-1 win in front of a passionate home crowd giving Howe his maiden win over Guardiola's Manchester City in league competition.

"I have extensive documentation of unsuccessful approaches against them, so I know what to avoid," Howe explained. "The list of effective methods is brief, but we continuously learn and refine our approach. That was our methodology."

'Gradual improvements preferred'

Planning commenced in the aftermath of their Brentford setback.

The manager invested extensive time studying video, evaluating practice sessions and looking for answers to their irregular season.

Despite having fewer players available, Newcastle concentrated on regaining "their dynamism and physicality" during the break.

Several notable adjustments were implemented for Manchester City's visit.

Skipper Bruno Guimaraes took up a central midfield position, replacing Sandro Tonali who had occupied that spot, with returning defenders Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento making their first joint start since autumn and creating a significant difference.

Fabian Schar returned to the starting lineup for the first time in two months, taking Sven Botman's position.

Despite the changes, Howe avoided dramatic overhauls and preserved his trusted 4-3-3 setup while two adjustments were enforced due to the absence of injured players Kieran Trippier and Anthony Gordon.

The majority of players who featured at Brentford and, indeed, in the damaging defeat at West Ham, were given opportunities to redeem themselves.

"I don't agree with completely overhauling systems," Howe declared. "Only in crisis situations would I consider drastic changes, which this isn't, and that's not my approach.

"I believe I have a clear understanding of our strongest players and I want to provide them every opportunity to demonstrate their qualities by supporting them and facilitating their growth."

Barnes Delivers When It Matters

Something clearly needed to change, however.

Only struggling Wolves and Leeds United had scored fewer goals than Newcastle in the top flight before this match.

Record signing Nick Woltemade had appeared isolated, with limited service, particularly in away matches.

Despite Woltemade's absence with the German national team, the squad developed new supporting movements for their forward including Barnes and Jacob Murphy, to enhance his performance when he rejoined the team.

Newcastle certainly created opportunities for Woltemade on Saturday, who was denied on three occasions by Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

However, while Newcastle previously relied too heavily on Woltemade, additional squad members have started making important contributions.

Particularly Barnes.

Barnes wasted crucial opportunities before halftime - even missing from close range - and acknowledged he wasn't "the most appreciated player" at intermission.

But not only did Barnes open the scoring with an excellent effort from the edge of the area in the second half, he delivered the winner just minutes after Manchester City equalized through Ruben Dias.

Newcastle previously led against Arsenal, Brentford and West Ham only to ultimately lose.

However, they maintained composure when City drew level and during eight additional minutes.

This performance saw Newcastle dominate physical battles, winning more challenges and defensive actions.

Although Manchester City controlled possession, which naturally affects the statistics, Newcastle stood firm and made nearly twice as many clearances (36) and restricted the visitors to just four shots on target.

This defensive effort was praised by former Magpies defender Jonathan Woodgate.

"Defensively they were outstanding, making it extremely challenging for City to exploit gaps in midfield," he stated in his broadcast analysis. "After halftime I viewed them as the better side, repeatedly threatening City on breaks and netting two superb Barnes goals. What an entertaining match."

St James' Stronghold

However, should this victory at a illuminated St James' Park be considered completely unexpected?

Just Manchester City (13) have secured more home Premier League victories than Newcastle (11) this year.

Beginning last season, the Magpies have achieved eight wins, two draws and merely two losses at St James' Park versus elite Premier League opposition.

However, away from home, Newcastle haven't triumphed in the top flight since April.

This clarifies why they sat merely one point above the drop zone before Saturday's crucial result.

"Although I wish to state that atmosphere shouldn't impact gameplay, it fundamentally alters proceedings," Howe conceded. "We must determine how to transfer positive energy into our away performances when we lack crowd support.

"This is our challenge to address, whether via tactical modifications, roster decisions. Whatever proves necessary, we must dedicate ourselves to identifying solutions."