I think this is just the initial stage where PIF acquires ownership of Newcastle, Sandro Tonali is one of the best purchases I think. The price is also very expensive, AC Milan can build a new squad by releasing one player namely Tonali. It is true that Eddie Howe has no experience at all in the UCL, because throughout his career he has only coached Bournemouth and Burnley. We know that the two clubs have never entered the Champions League zone in the EPL in the last decade.
Joining Group F puts Newcastle in a difficult position, because after all Milan, PSG and Dortmound are the favourites. Newcastle could have qualified for the last 16 with any luck, if the other three clubs suffer a dip in form.
I don't think Newcastle United is not favorable team for qualifying to next round on Group F, actually all Premier League teams have tradition qualify from group stage round almost every season and I doubt with many people pessimistic with Newcastle United chance success qualify from group stage. Its not difference with first time appearance after Newcastle United absent for long time, but they have solid squad and spent much money last summer window transfer depending with other favorable teams AC Milan and Dortmund except PSG as automatically will lead top standings. Dortmund have loss their star player Jude Bellingham and last season they have poor performance in Champion League, I don't think Dortmund is favorable teams will qualify to next round.