Barcelona have confirmed their starting lineup ahead of the UEFA Champions League round of sixteen first leg against Newcastle United at St James Park, with several notable changes introduced by head coach Hansi Flick. The Spanish club enters the match looking to secure a strong result away from home as the knockout stage begins. With kickoff approaching, Flick opted to rotate parts of the squad compared with the side that played against Athletic Club at the weekend, signaling a tactical shift as Barcelona prepares for one of the most important matches of their European campaign.
One of the most significant changes sees midfielder Pedri return to the starting lineup after missing the previous fixture. The Spanish international takes the place of Marc Casado in midfield and is expected to partner Marc Bernal, who has recovered after recently dealing with illness. Pedri’s presence adds creativity and control to the midfield, an area Barcelona will rely on heavily as they attempt to manage possession against Newcastle’s energetic style of play in front of a passionate home crowd in England.
Barcelona have also reshuffled their defensive lineup with Ronald Araujo returning to the side in place of Eric Garcia, who is unavailable due to muscular discomfort. The Uruguayan defender is set to form the central defensive partnership with Pau Cubarsi. On the flanks, Joao Cancelo and Gerard Martin will operate as full backs while goalkeeper Joan Garcia retains his place between the posts. The defensive structure reflects Flick’s focus on balancing attacking support from the full backs while maintaining solidity against Newcastle’s attacking threats.
In attack Barcelona will rely on experienced striker Robert Lewandowski to lead the front line. The Polish forward replaces Ferran Torres in the number nine role and is expected to provide the finishing presence inside the penalty area. Lewandowski will be supported by Raphinha on the left wing and teenage talent Lamine Yamal on the right, creating a combination of experience and youthful pace in the attacking third. Their ability to stretch the Newcastle defense could prove decisive in breaking down the opposition.
Further support in the final third will come from Fermin Lopez who is set to operate in an advanced midfield role just behind Lewandowski. Positioned as the team’s attacking midfielder, Lopez is expected to connect the midfield with the forward line and help create scoring opportunities. Dani Olmo also features in the attacking setup, adding technical quality and movement between the lines as Barcelona look to control the rhythm of the game.
The match at St James Park represents a crucial test for Barcelona as they seek to advance deeper into the Champions League knockout rounds. Newcastle will be motivated by home advantage and the opportunity to challenge one of Europe’s most successful clubs. Barcelona’s selection suggests Flick is aiming for a balanced approach that combines defensive discipline with attacking creativity in order to manage the pressure of playing away in the first leg.
With several key players returning and tactical adjustments made to the lineup, Barcelona will hope the combination of experience and emerging talent can deliver a positive result before the second leg. The outcome of this encounter will play a major role in shaping the tie as both teams aim to secure progression to the next stage of the competition.
