Pedri and Raphinha will return to the Barcelona starting lineup when they take on Newcastle United in the UEFA Champions League clash at St. James’ Park on Tuesday.
Barcelona will be eager to take a step closer to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals when they lock horns with Newcastle United in the round of 16 first leg at St. James’ Park on Tuesday night. Hansi Flick has received a positive update on the team news front ahead of his side’s latest fixture.
Marc Bernal, who struggled with a stomach issue in the league game against Athletic Club this past weekend, is available to take on Newcastle United on Tuesday. However, five players have missed the trip to England this week.
Jules Kounde (hamstring), Andreas Christensen (ACL), Alejandro Balde (hamstring), Gavi (knee), and Frenkie de Jong (hamstring) remain in the treatment room. Meanwhile, during his pre-match press conference, Flick did not provide fitness updates on any player. However, the German tactician praised the graduates from La Masia who have become pivotal figures for him.
The Barcelona head coach said, “Their quality is incredible and their performances in Bilbao [against Athletic Club] were spectacular. Watching Cubarsi defend…He took a throw-in like a corner. He’s at the same level as Lamine, but in defence. He’s 19 years old and can play at the highest level imaginable.”
Meanwhile, Flick also discussed the possibility of including Marcus Rashford in the starting lineup on Tuesday after his exploits in the league clash with Newcastle United earlier this season. He said, “Marcus was away for a few days and has come back strong. I haven’t decided yet, but he’s a good option.”
Joan Garcia is an automatic pick between the sticks, with Barcelona lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him against Newcastle United on Tuesday. The backline will feature Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, and Joao Cancelo.
As for the midfield unit, Pedri will line up alongside Marc Casado in the double pivot, with Fermin Lopez reprising the no. 10 role. Finally, Robert Lewandowski will lead the line for the away side against Newcastle United, with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal being the two wide attackers. So, Marcus Rashford, Ferran Torres, and Dani Olmo will be among the backup options on the bench.
Predicted Barcelona XI: Joan Garcia; Eric Garcia, Cubarsi, Martin, Cancelo; Pedri, Casado; Yamal, Lopez, Raphinha; Lewandowski
