Barcelona set to compete against top-tier Premier League teams
Hansi Flick states that Barcelona possesses the capability to contend with the financial strength of the “best in the world” Premier League as he readies the Spanish champions for Tuesday’s Champions League last-16 first leg against Newcastle United.
Newcastle is among six Premier League teams to reach this stage in Europe’s premier competition, and the Magpies stand in the way of Barça and a spot in next month’s quarterfinals.
This week’s encounter at St. James’ Park will mark the second clash between the two sides in the Champions League this season, with Barça having secured a 2-1 victory during the league phase at Newcastle in September.
The outcome of the tie will be decided on March 18 at Spotify Camp Nou.
“The Premier League is an excellent league, in my opinion the best in the world,” Barça coach Flick remarked during the pre-match press conference on Monday. “They have formidable teams and substantial financial resources — to hopefully make the right choices. This is why you see six [English] teams in this round.
“In my view, we are also strong, not just Newcastle or Manchester City or Arsenal or Tottenham or the others. We possess immense quality, and we must continue on our path — our style, how we wish to play.
“We aim to play like Barça, even in the Champions League. Our fans take pride in the way we play football. This is what we want to demonstrate tomorrow.”
Newcastle has not been in optimal form domestically. They have suffered three losses in their last five league matches, dropping to 12th in the standings, and were eliminated from the FA Cup by Manchester City over the weekend.
Nonetheless, Flick recognizes the challenge they will present, particularly with a fervent home crowd supporting them on Tuesday.
“The Champions League is different,” the German coach noted when asked about Newcastle’s erratic performances. “Everyone at this level wants to showcase their best. We will encounter a fantastic atmosphere here. The fans will rally behind them, they will press high, man to man, and engage in an intense match.
“We must play courageously from the back. It will not be straightforward. We need to find solutions. It’s a team in transition with very quick, talented, outstanding players. We must manage and handle it.”
Barça will be without the injured Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde, Andreas Christensen, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong, but Flick confirmed that midfielder Marc Bernal is available after recovering from a stomach issue.
Marcus Rashford, who netted both goals when Barça defeated Newcastle in September, may also be considered by Flick after making his first start in a month during Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Athletic Club.
“Marcus was injured; he missed several days and games,” Flick stated. “Now he is back. We will see. I have not made a decision yet. But he is a good option.”
The lead-up to Barça’s match in England has been overshadowed by the dispute between Flick’s predecessor Xavi Hernández and president Joan Laporta in the context of Sunday’s presidential election, where club members will vote for either Laporta or Victor Font.
Flick asserts that club politics will not influence his players’ preparations.
“This is one of the most crucial weeks of the season because we aim to advance to the next round,” he said.
“We have a game here, and we must concentrate on the match. I am focused solely on this game, on tomorrow, on my team.”
