Newcastle United is set to host Barcelona this evening at St. James’ Park for the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 encounter. The crucial return leg will take place at Camp Nou next Wednesday. Both formidable sides enter the match significantly hampered by a slew of injuries to key players.
Barcelona’s manager, Hansi Flick, faces a challenging selection dilemma, particularly in defense, with Jules Kounde, Alejandro Balde, Andreas Christensen, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi all unavailable. To compensate for these absences, Barcelona has called up promising young talents: right-back Xavi Espart, defender Alvaro Cortes, and midfielder Tommy Marques. Similarly, Newcastle’s Eddie Howe will be without Bruno Guimaraes, Lewis Miley, Emil Krafth, and Fabian Schar. Adding to the tension, six players across both teams are at risk of suspension if they receive a booking: Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Marc Casado, and Gerard Martin for Barcelona, along with Newcastle’s Joelinton and Dan Burn.
Hansi Flick’s Tactical Debates Up Front and at the Back
Both leading sports publications, MD and Sport, widely predict that Robert Lewandowski will return to Barcelona’s starting XI, taking precedence over Ferran Torres. However, opinions diverge regarding the defensive setup. MD suggests Flick will retain the same back four that secured a 1-0 victory over Athletic Club in Bilbao. In contrast, Sport believes Ronald Araujo will step in, possibly at the expense of Joao Cancelo.
Eric Garcia is largely expected to maintain his position at right-back. Sport speculates that Araujo’s inclusion could see Gerard Martin deployed at left-back, indicating a more cautious, defensive strategy from Flick. The Barcelona coach also confirmed Marc Bernal’s recovery from illness, and he is likely to start alongside Pedri and Fermin Lopez in midfield.
Newcastle United’s Pace Advantage
Eddie Howe’s lineup for Newcastle appears to be more straightforward. He is anticipated to unleash a formidable and fast-paced attacking trio comprising Anthony Elanga, Anthony Gordon, and Harvey Barnes. With Guimaraes sidelined, Jacob Ramsey is expected to partner Sandro Tonali in midfield. Furthermore, familiar face Kieran Trippier will be tasked with the critical role of neutralizing Barcelona’s Raphinha.
