Premier League Showdown: Newcastle United vs. Manchester United – A Battle for European Ambition

Date: 2026-03-04 20:15:00
Competition: Premier League
Venue: Unknown Venue (Designated Home: Newcastle United FC)

1. INTRODUCTION

As the Premier League season enters its critical final third, Wednesday, March 4th, 2026, presents a fixture steeped in significance and burgeoning rivalry: Newcastle United, the ambitious northern powerhouse, hosts Manchester United, a club perennially striving for its former glory. This clash, set for an unspecified venue but with Newcastle designated as the home side, is far more than just three points; it’s a barometer of European aspirations, a test of tactical ingenuity, and a potential turning point in both clubs’ campaigns.

For Newcastle, under the astute guidance that has consistently pushed them into the upper echelons of English football, this match represents another opportunity to solidify their claim for a coveted European spot – perhaps even a Champions League berth. Their journey since the takeover has been one of relentless progress, built on a foundation of defensive solidity, high-intensity pressing, and shrewd recruitment. A victory here would not only provide a massive boost in the league standings but also serve as a definitive statement of their continued evolution and ability to compete with the traditional giants.

Manchester United, on the other hand, finds itself in a familiar battle for consistency and a return to sustained elite performance. The Red Devils, with their rich history and global fanbase, demand nothing less than challenging for top honours. This encounter against a formidable Newcastle side is crucial for their own top-four aspirations and to maintain momentum in what is always a fiercely contested Premier League. A win would demonstrate their pedigree and resilience, while a defeat could derail their progress and invite unwelcome pressure.

Fans should brace themselves for a captivating encounter. This fixture has, in recent years, evolved from a historical mismatch into a genuine rivalry, characterized by pulsating end-to-end action, tactical battles in midfield, and moments of individual brilliance. With so much at stake – points, pride, and the pursuit of European football – this promises to be an enthralling spectacle for any football enthusiast.

2. CURRENT FORM & STANDINGS

Newcastle United FC:
Newcastle United enters this fixture in a strong, yet perhaps slightly inconsistent, vein of form. Over their last ten Premier League outings, they have registered five wins, three draws, and two losses. This run has seen them consolidate a position within the European qualification places, currently sitting 6th in the league table with 45 points from 26 games. Their goal difference stands at a healthy +12 (41 goals scored, 29 conceded), reflecting their balanced approach.

Their recent momentum has been somewhat punctuated by challenging away fixtures, but their home form (assuming the “Unknown Venue” will function as their home advantage) remains formidable. They’ve secured impressive victories against mid-table rivals and shown resilience in drawing with a top-four contender recently. The two losses came against teams in the top three, highlighting a slight struggle to convert dominance into points against the absolute elite, but also demonstrating their ability to push them to the limit. The Magpies have shown a capacity to grind out results, often scoring crucial late goals, indicating strong fitness and mental fortitude. Their defensive record, while not the absolute best, has been a cornerstone of their success, conceding fewer goals than many teams around them in the table.

Manchester United FC:
Manchester United arrives at this encounter looking to build on a recent resurgence following a testing period. Over their last ten league matches, they have secured six wins, two draws, and two defeats. This improved run has propelled them to 5th in the Premier League, just one point ahead of Newcastle with 46 points from 26 games. Their goal difference is +15 (45 goals scored, 30 conceded), suggesting a slightly more potent attack but a comparable defensive record to their opponents.

The Red Devils had endured a patchy autumn, struggling for consistency, particularly in front of goal. However, recent weeks have seen a noticeable uplift in performance, with key players finding form and the team demonstrating greater cohesion. They’ve strung together a winning streak of three games prior to this fixture, including a hard-fought away victory against a tricky opponent, which has instilled renewed confidence. Their defeats in this ten-game stretch were against formidable opposition, but the manner of their victories has been encouraging, often showcasing flashes of individual brilliance that can turn a game. The challenge for United is to maintain this momentum and prove they can consistently perform at the highest level against well-drilled teams like Newcastle.

In summary, both teams are vying for similar positions, separated by just one point. Newcastle’s strength lies in its defensive structure and home advantage, while Manchester United is riding a wave of renewed confidence and boasts significant individual attacking talent. The stakes are incredibly high, with the winner gaining a significant psychological and points advantage in the race for European football.

3. HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY

The historical rivalry between Newcastle United and Manchester United is one rich in tradition, though for many decades, it was largely characterized by Manchester United’s dominance. However, in the modern era, particularly since Newcastle’s resurgence under new ownership, the dynamic has shifted dramatically, making recent encounters far more competitive and unpredictable.

Overall Record (Premier League Era):
Manchester United has historically held a significant edge over Newcastle United in the Premier League. Out of 61 Premier League meetings, Manchester United boasts 33 wins, compared to Newcastle’s 14 victories, with 14 draws. This reflects the Red Devils’ consistent presence at the top of English football for much of the last three decades.

Recent Encounters (Last 5 Seasons):
The more pertinent narrative for this fixture lies in the recent past. Over the last five seasons (2021/22 to 2025/26), the head-to-head record has become much more balanced, reflecting Newcastle’s ascent. In the nine Premier League meetings during this period:
Newcastle United Wins: 4
Manchester United Wins: 3
Draws: 2

This stark change highlights Newcastle’s transformation into a genuine threat. They have consistently managed to get results against United, particularly at their home ground. Memorable recent clashes include:
A 4-1 Newcastle home win (2023/24 season): A dominant performance that saw Newcastle dismantle United with their relentless pressing and clinical finishing, a result that sent shockwaves through the league and firmly established Newcastle as a top-four contender.
A 2-0 Manchester United home win (2024/25 season): A tactical masterclass from United, who absorbed pressure and hit Newcastle on the counter, demonstrating their ability to adapt and overcome.
A 0-0 draw at Old Trafford (Earlier this season, 2025/26): A cagey affair where both teams cancelled each other out, showcasing defensive discipline and a reluctance to commit too many men forward, highlighting the respect both managers now have for the opposition.

Patterns in Meetings:
Recent matches have often been characterized by high intensity and tactical battles in midfield. Newcastle’s aggressive pressing and direct attacking style have often troubled United’s sometimes-fragile defence, particularly in transition. Conversely, United’s individual brilliance and ability to exploit space in wide areas have posed challenges for Newcastle’s structured defence. Goals often come from set-pieces or quick counter-attacks, rather than prolonged periods of intricate build-up play. There’s also a noticeable trend of Newcastle performing exceptionally well at home against United, often fueled by the passionate crowd, which will be a factor even at an unspecified venue if it is functionally their home game.

Psychological Edge:
While Manchester United still holds the historical psychological edge, Newcastle has significantly eroded this in recent years. The Magpies no longer view United as an insurmountable opponent but rather a direct rival for European places. Their recent victories have instilled a belief that they can consistently compete and win against the Red Devils. For United, the pressure to assert their ‘big club’ status against an emerging force is palpable, and recent defeats will undoubtedly fuel their desire for revenge. This match, therefore, carries a significant psychological weight for both sets of players and managers.

4. TEAM NEWS & SQUAD ANALYSIS

Understanding the likely personnel and their availability is crucial for predicting the tactical landscape of this fixture. Both Newcastle and Manchester United boast strong squads, but injuries and suspensions could play a decisive role.

Newcastle United FC:

Injury Concerns: Newcastle’s high-intensity style often comes with a physical cost. As of the projected date, they are likely without key midfielder Joelinton (hamstring, out for 2-3 weeks) and potentially missing a crucial defender like Sven Botman (knock, 50/50 fitness test). The absence of Joelinton is significant, as his physicality, ball-winning, and driving runs from midfield are integral to their engine room. Botman’s potential absence would weaken their aerial dominance and defensive solidity.
Suspensions: No immediate suspensions are reported, but players like Bruno Guimarães will be walking a tightrope with accumulated yellow cards.
Key Players Available: The core of their team remains strong. Nick Pope (goalkeeper), Kieran Trippier (right-back, veteran leader), Fabian Schär (centre-back), Bruno Guimarães (midfield general), Anthony Gordon (winger, pace and directness), and Alexander Isak (striker, clinical finisher) are all expected to start.
Squad Depth: Newcastle’s depth has improved significantly but can still be tested by multiple injuries. They have reliable backups in midfield (e.g., Sean Longstaff) and defence (e.g., Jamaal Lascelles, Dan Burn), but replacing the unique attributes of a Joelinton or Botman can be challenging. Their attacking options from the bench (e.g., Harvey Barnes, Jacob Murphy) offer pace and directness.

Likely Newcastle Starting XI (4-3-3/4-2-3-1):
Pope; Trippier, Schär, Lascelles (if Botman out), Burn; Guimarães, Longstaff, Willock; Gordon, Isak, Almiron.

Manchester United FC:

Injury Concerns: Manchester United has also faced their share of injury woes this season. They are likely without first-choice left-back Luke Shaw (long-term muscle injury) and potentially key midfielder Casemiro (minor knock, doubtful). Shaw’s absence impacts their build-up play and defensive balance on the left flank, while Casemiro’s experience and defensive shielding in midfield would be sorely missed against Newcastle’s energetic attack.
Suspensions: No immediate suspensions are reported. Bruno Fernandes and Lisandro Martinez are often close to yellow card accumulation thresholds.
Key Players Available: United’s attacking arsenal is largely intact. André Onana (goalkeeper), Lisandro Martinez (centre-back, aggression and ball-playing), Bruno Fernandes (captain, creative hub), Kobbie Mainoo (emerging midfield talent), Alejandro Garnacho (winger, pace and flair), and Marcus Rashford (forward, directness and goal threat) are all expected to feature prominently.
Squad Depth: United possesses significant depth, particularly in attacking positions. Players like Antony, Scott McTominay, and Christian Eriksen provide strong options from the bench to change the game or cover for injuries. Their defensive depth, particularly at full-back, can be tested, but they have versatile options.

Likely Manchester United Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Onana; Dalot, Varane, Martinez, Malacia (if Shaw out); Mainoo, McTominay; Garnacho, Fernandes, Antony; Rashford.

Impact on the Game:
Newcastle’s potential defensive absences could force them to be slightly more conservative or rely on less experienced pairings, which United could exploit. Conversely, United’s midfield and left-back issues mean they might lack some of the control and defensive solidity required against Newcastle’s relentless pressure. The battle in central midfield, particularly without Joelinton and potentially Casemiro, will be a fascinating clash of styles and energy levels.

5. KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

The outcome of this high-stakes encounter will undoubtedly hinge on individual brilliance and critical moments. Here are 2-3 key players from each side who are poised to significantly influence the game:

Newcastle United FC:

1. Bruno Guimarães (Central Midfielder): The undisputed heartbeat of Newcastle. Guimarães dictates the tempo, breaks up play, and initiates attacks with his exceptional passing range and vision.

Current Form: Consistently excellent, leading by example with his work rate and technical prowess. He’s been instrumental in Newcastle’s ability to control games and withstand pressure.
Statistics (Conceptual for 2026): High pass completion rate (88%), averaging 3 tackles and 2 interceptions per game, with a growing number of assists (5-7 this season) from his deeper role.
Strengths: Ball retention, defensive awareness, progressive passing, leadership, ability to drive forward with the ball.
Danger Factor: His ability to win midfield battles against United’s creative players, shield the defence, and launch incisive passes to Isak or the wingers will be crucial. If he controls the midfield, Newcastle controls the game.

1. Alexander Isak (Striker): Newcastle’s primary goal threat, combining pace, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing.

Current Form: Enjoying a prolific season, demonstrating his versatility and knack for scoring crucial goals, often from difficult angles or on the counter.
Statistics (Conceptual for 2026): Leading scorer for Newcastle (12-15 league goals this season), with a high shot conversion rate.
Strengths: Off-the-ball movement, composure in front of goal, aerial ability, link-up play, pace to run in behind.
Danger Factor: His battle against United’s centre-backs (Martinez and Varane) will be key. His ability to find pockets of space, exploit any high line, or hold up play to bring wingers into action makes him a constant menace.

1. Anthony Gordon (Winger): A livewire on the flank, bringing relentless energy, directness, and a growing end product.

Current Form: Has truly blossomed, becoming a vital attacking outlet with his dribbling and goal contributions. His work rate off the ball is also immense.
Statistics (Conceptual for 2026): 6-8 goals and 4-6 assists this season, consistently among the league leaders for successful dribbles.
Strengths: Pace, dribbling, pressing, direct running at defenders, drawing fouls.
Danger Factor: His duel with United’s right-back (Dalot) will be a key individual battle. His ability to beat his man and deliver crosses or cut inside to shoot could create pivotal moments for Newcastle.

Manchester United FC:

1. Bruno Fernandes (Attacking Midfielder/Captain): The creative lynchpin and emotional leader of Manchester United.

Current Form: Continues to be United’s most influential attacker, even when the team struggles. His creativity and goal contributions are often the spark for United’s best attacking moves.
Statistics (Conceptual for 2026): Consistently in double figures for both goals (8-10) and assists (10-12) this season, leading the league in chances created.
Strengths: Vision, passing range, set-piece delivery, long-range shooting, tireless pressing, leadership.
Danger Factor: Newcastle’s midfield will need to shackle him. His ability to unlock defences with a single pass, convert free-kicks, or score from distance makes him a constant threat that demands close attention.

1. Marcus Rashford (Forward/Winger): United’s most potent and direct attacking weapon, capable of devastating defenders with his pace and finishing.

Current Form: Has rediscovered his prolific touch in recent weeks, looking sharp and confident in front of goal after a period of inconsistency.
Statistics (Conceptual for 2026): United’s top scorer (10-13 league goals this season), with a knack for scoring big goals.
Strengths: Blistering pace, powerful shooting, direct dribbling, intelligent runs off the shoulder of defenders.
Danger Factor: If Newcastle’s defence isn’t perfectly organized, Rashford’s ability to run into space or cut in from the left wing to unleash a shot will be a major concern. His one-on-one ability against Trippier or Schär could be game-changing.

1. Lisandro Martinez (Centre-Back): The aggressive, ball-playing defender who brings intensity and leadership to United’s backline.

Current Form: After recovering from previous injuries, Martinez has been a colossus, bringing much-needed aggression and composure to the defence.
Statistics (Conceptual for 2026): High success rate in ground duels (70%), excellent pass completion (92%), and a strong presence in tackles and interceptions.
Strengths: Aggression, tackling, aerial ability despite his height, progressive passing from the back, leadership, reading of the game.
Danger Factor: While a defender, Martinez’s role in nullifying Isak and disrupting Newcastle’s build-up is paramount. His ability to win the ball high up, distribute quickly, and command the defence will be vital in preventing Newcastle from gaining momentum.

6. TACTICAL BREAKDOWN

This match promises a fascinating tactical battle between two managers who prioritize structure, intensity, and exploiting the opposition’s weaknesses.

Newcastle United FC (Expected Formation: 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1):

Playing Style: Newcastle’s identity is built on a high-octane, aggressive approach. They are known for their relentless pressing intensity, particularly in their designated home fixtures, suffocating opponents in their own half. When possession is won, they transition quickly, often with direct vertical passes to Isak or through the pace of Gordon and Almiron on the wings.
Build-Up Patterns: They prefer to build from the back, utilizing Nick Pope’s distribution and the composure of Schär and Lascelles (or Botman). Guimarães is central to their build-up, dropping deep to receive the ball and spraying passes. They often look to bypass the midfield press with long diagonals to their wide players or through quick one-touch combinations to break lines.
Defensive Setups: Extremely well-drilled and compact. They defend in a mid-to-low block when out of possession, making it incredibly difficult for opponents to play through the lines. The midfield three (or two holding midfielders) are disciplined in their positioning, closing down passing lanes and supporting the back four. They are particularly strong at defending crosses and set-pieces, with a robust aerial presence.
Set-Piece Threats: Kieran Trippier’s delivery from wide free-kicks and corners is a major weapon, targeting the likes of Schär, Lascelles, and Isak. They have a variety of routines and are adept at creating goal-scoring opportunities from dead-ball situations.

Manchester United FC (Expected Formation: 4-2-3-1):

Playing Style: Manchester United typically aims for a more possession-based game, though they are also highly dangerous on the counter-attack given the pace of Rashford and Garnacho. They look to play through the lines, utilizing the creativity of Bruno Fernandes and the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo in midfield.
Build-Up Patterns: United often build from the back with Onana, Martinez, and Varane comfortable on the ball. They aim to draw opponents out before playing quick passes into the feet of their creative midfielders or wide players. Full-backs (Dalot, Malacia) are encouraged to push high and provide width, creating numerical advantages in attacking areas.
Defensive Setups: Can be a mixed bag. When organized, they press high and aggressively, particularly in advanced areas through Fernandes and Rashford. However, they can be vulnerable to quick transitions and counter-attacks, especially if their full-backs are caught high up the pitch. The midfield pivot (Mainoo and McTominay/Casemiro) is crucial for shielding the defence and preventing opponents from exploiting the space between the lines.
Set-Piece Threats: Bruno Fernandes is the primary taker, capable of delivering dangerous balls into the box. They also have players who can score directly from free-kicks. Defensively, they are generally solid but can be susceptible to well-worked routines.

How the Tactical Matchup Could Play Out:

Midfield Battle: This will be the most crucial area. Newcastle’s intensity and physicality (Guimarães, Longstaff, Willock) against United’s technical ability and creativity (Fernandes, Mainoo, McTominay). If Newcastle can disrupt United’s rhythm and win second balls, they will stifle United’s attack. If United can bypass Newcastle’s initial press, Fernandes and Mainoo have the quality to dictate play.
Wing Play: Newcastle’s Gordon and Almiron will look to run at United’s full-backs, who may be caught high. Trippier’s overlapping runs will also be a factor. For United, Rashford and Garnacho’s pace and directness will test Newcastle’s full-backs and centre-backs. The defensive discipline of the wingers from both sides will be vital in tracking back.
Pressing vs. Build-Up: Newcastle will undoubtedly try to press United high, forcing errors. United’s ability to play through this press with quick, precise passing will be key. If United’s defenders and midfielders can maintain composure and execute clean passes, they can bypass the press and create numerical advantages.
Counter-Attacks: Both teams are dangerous on the break. Newcastle will look to spring Isak and Gordon forward quickly after winning possession. United will rely on Rashford’s pace if Newcastle commits too many players forward. Defensive transitions will be paramount for both sides.
Set-Pieces: Given Newcastle’s prowess and United’s occasional vulnerability, this could be a decisive factor. Newcastle will target corners and free-kicks around the box.

Strengths:
Defensive Organization & Solidity: Extremely well-drilled, compact, and difficult to break down, particularly in their designated home games. They deny space effectively.
High Pressing Intensity: Their ability to suffocate opponents and win the ball high up the pitch is a major weapon, creating turnovers in dangerous areas.
Physicality & Work Rate: A tenacious team that outworks opponents, dominant in duels and tireless in their running.
Counter-Attacking Threat: With the pace of Isak, Gordon, and Almiron, they are devastating on the break once possession is won.
Set-Piece Prowess: A significant threat from corners and free-kicks, with excellent delivery and aerial targets.
Midfield Engine: Bruno Guimarães and his partners provide both defensive cover and creative spark.

Weaknesses:
Breaking Down Deep Blocks: Can sometimes struggle against teams that sit very deep and deny space, lacking the intricate passing patterns to consistently unlock such defences.
Reliance on Key Individuals: Injuries to players like Guimarães, Isak, or a top centre-back can significantly impact their performance due to their unique contributions.
Fatigue in High-Intensity System: The demanding nature of their playing style can lead to periods of fatigue, especially in a congested fixture list, potentially leading to lapses in concentration.
Occasional Lack of Creativity: While effective, their attacking play can sometimes lack the unpredictable flair to break down the very best defences through intricate play.

Strengths:
Individual Attacking Quality: Players like Rashford, Fernandes, and Garnacho possess the ability to create and score goals out of nothing, changing games in an instant.
Creativity from Midfield: Bruno Fernandes is one of the league’s top chance creators, capable of unlocking defences with incisive passes and dangerous set-piece delivery.
Pace on the Wings: Rashford and Garnacho offer blistering speed and directness, posing a constant threat to opposition full-backs and centre-backs.
Strong Goalkeeping: André Onana has proven to be a reliable shot-stopper and an integral part of their build-up play.
Big Game Experience: Many of their players have competed at the highest level and are accustomed to pressure situations.

Weaknesses:
Inconsistency & Defensive Lapses: Can be prone to moments of defensive disorganization or individual errors, which Newcastle’s press will look to exploit.
Vulnerability to Counter-Attacks: If full-backs push too high or midfield loses possession cheaply, they can be exposed on the break by quick, direct opponents.
Struggles Against Physicality & Pressing: Teams that match their intensity and physicality, like Newcastle, can disrupt their rhythm and make it difficult for United to play their preferred style.
Midfield Control: Can sometimes struggle to consistently control the midfield against energetic teams, leaving their defence exposed.
Full-back Defensive Discipline: While good going forward, their full-backs can sometimes be caught out defensively, leaving space in wide areas.

Newcastle Exploiting Man Utd:
Pressing High: Newcastle will look to press United’s defenders and midfielders aggressively, particularly Mainoo and McTominay, to force turnovers in dangerous areas and launch quick attacks.
Targeting Full-Backs: Gordon and Almiron will look to isolate and run at United’s full-backs, exploiting any space left behind when they push forward.
Set-Pieces: Newcastle will aim to win corners and free-kicks in wide areas, leveraging Trippier’s delivery against United’s defence.
Counter-Attacks: By absorbing pressure and then hitting United quickly when they commit men forward, particularly if United’s midfield is bypassed.

Man Utd Exploiting Newcastle:
Pace in Behind: Rashford and Garnacho will look to exploit any high defensive line from Newcastle or the channels between centre-backs and full-backs.
Bruno Fernandes’ Creativity: Fernandes will look for pockets of space between Newcastle’s midfield and defence to play killer passes or unleash long-range efforts.
Exploiting Fatigue: If Newcastle’s intensity drops, United’s technical quality and passing could take over, dominating possession and creating chances.
Individual Brilliance: Relying on moments of magic from their star attackers to break down Newcastle’s organized defence, perhaps through dribbles or unexpected shots.

First Goal Scorer: Alexander Isak (Newcastle) due to his movement and clinical finishing, or Bruno Fernandes (Man Utd) from a set-piece or late run.
Corners: Expect a relatively high number of corners, particularly for Newcastle, as they press high and deliver many crosses. Potentially 10-12 corners in total.
Cards: This will be a feisty encounter. Expect 4-6 yellow cards, with potential for a red card if the intensity boils over or a rash challenge is made in a critical moment. Bruno Guimarães and Lisandro Martinez are always candidates for bookings.
Possession: Manchester United will likely edge possession (55-60%), as Newcastle is comfortable playing without the ball and hitting on the break.
Shots on Target: Both teams will have around 4-6 shots on target, reflecting the defensive solidity of both sides.

Betting Odds (Conceptual Analysis):
Newcastle United Win: Likely to be slight favourites, especially if the “Unknown Venue” is functionally their home ground, reflecting their strong home form and recent head-to-head record. Odds around 2.20 – 2.40.
Draw: A very plausible outcome given the tactical battle and stakes. Odds around 3.20 – 3.40.
Manchester United Win: Seen as outsiders but still offering good value, given their individual talent and recent winning streak. Odds around 2.80 – 3.00.
Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Highly likely, given the attacking talent on display and potential for defensive lapses. Odds around 1.65 – 1.80.

• Over 2.5 Goals: A reasonable bet, though not a certainty, as both teams can score but also defend well. Odds around 1.85 – 2.00.

9. CONCLUSION

The 2026 Premier League fixture between Newcastle United and Manchester United is poised to be a captivating spectacle, brimming with tactical intrigue, individual battles, and high stakes. Both clubs are locked in a relentless pursuit of European football, making every point invaluable.

Newcastle will aim to leverage their trademark intensity, defensive discipline, and potent counter-attacking threat to overwhelm a Manchester United side that, despite its recent resurgence, still exhibits moments of vulnerability. The Magpies’ ability to stifle United’s creative forces and exploit any defensive lapses will be paramount.

Conversely, Manchester United will look to assert their quality through the individual brilliance of players like Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford, seeking to navigate Newcastle’s suffocating press and exploit space with their pace and technical prowess. The Red Devils’ experience in crunch matches will be tested to its limits.

With the midfield set to be a war zone, the flanks providing crucial attacking avenues, and set-pieces potentially offering the decisive moment, this match has all the ingredients for a classic Premier League encounter. Fans can expect a fiercely contested 90 minutes, where passion, tactical acumen, and a moment of magic or madness could ultimately separate these two ambitious clubs. Don’t miss what promises to be a pivotal clash in the race for European glory.