Barça aims to confirm favorite status against Newcastle in Champions League

Hansi Flick's side visits St. James' Park boosted by Lamine Yamal's form and Pedri's return.

Generic image of a soccer ball in a stadium illuminated at night.
IA

Generic image of a soccer ball in a stadium illuminated at night.

FC Barcelona travels to St. James' Park this Tuesday to face Newcastle in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16.

The Catalan side arrives in England after securing four consecutive victories in recent weeks. Despite the Copa del Rey exit against Atlético de Madrid, Hansi Flick's squad is confident, relying on the impact of Lamine Yamal and the return of Pedri to the midfield.

"It is the most important week of the season."

Hansi Flick · FC Barcelona Manager
Off the pitch, the pre-match atmosphere was influenced by the club's internal politics. Joan Laporta and Víctor Font exchanged criticisms following an interview with Xavi Hernández regarding Leo Messi's departure.