The wait is nearly over, FC Barcelona’s first outing in this season’s UEFA Champions League is just around the corner. The Catalan giants travel to England to face Premier League side Newcastle United, fresh off a commanding win over Valencia. Newcastle, meanwhile, will be looking to build momentum after their own home victory against Wolves over the weekend.
As previously reported, injuries to Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde mean both players will remain in Spain, and their absence could present a real challenge in securing all three points. Still, the squad has enough depth and quality to rise to the occasion, and if they do, it could be the perfect opportunity to lay down a strong marker for the rest of the group stage.
This is the predicted XI to walk out to that raucous atmosphere at St James’ Park:
GK: Joan Garcia
One of the best players regarding his performances this season. Will undoubtedly have to make a few saves as Newcastle will have chances with their intensity in the pressing and physicality pose a significant difference to Valencia.
RB: Jules Kounde
Likely to be preferred over Eric Garcia due to his physicality and finding his rhythm again leading to the good performance against Valencia.
CB: Ronald Araujo
This is a task better suited to a strong, combative Uruguayan defender unafraid of physical battles, rather than a slight Spanish defender who struggled during his stint in the Premier League. Facing two 6'6" aerial threats at set pieces is the kind of challenge he'll relish.
CB: Andreas Christensen
While his ball-playing ability may not quite match Pau Cubarsí's level, his height makes him a crucial inclusion for this match. That said, he’s still comfortable enough in possession to maintain the team's style without a significant drop-off.
LB: Gerard Martin
Played in the pressure cooker of the Champions League semi-final last season, so will provide a solid option in Balde’s absence.
CM: Frenkie de Jong
Experience and quality often make the difference in fixtures like this, with the Dutchman getting the nod over Marc Casado. Depending on his fitness, he may only feature for around 60 minutes, with Casado likely to replace him. Unfortunately for the young Spaniard, he's the unlucky one to miss out tonight despite his impressive performance against Valencia.
CM: Pedri
Like Xavi’s creativity stitched with Iniesta’s directness, the squad flows under a conductor’s guiding hand, every pass and run orchestrated with elegance and purpose.
RW: Raphinha
A lateness won’t stop him returning to England and starting, with two great goals from the weekend, the Brazilian is a must. A lot of success in this tournament will be due to his performances this year.
AM: Fermin Lopez
The man of the moment. Two brilliant goals should be the guarantee for this game and face the club who reportedly wanted to sign him in the summer.
LW: Marcus Rashford
He’ll know St. James’ Park and the atmosphere well, and he’ll certainly enjoy the test. Trippier or Livramento pushing forward will open up more room, giving him the chance to show his attacking abilities.
ST: Ferran Torres
Ferran Torres has been the preferred choice in recent matches, offering high-intensity pressing from the front that complements the team's style of play. Meanwhile, Robert Lewandowski has demonstrated his effectiveness as an impact substitute, showcasing his quality by scoring twice off the bench to seal the win against Valencia.