Champions League debut for Barcelona against Newcastle United awaits
Barcelona, fresh off their La Liga title win in the 2024-25 season, will face a challenging test in the UEFA Champions League 2025-26 as they take on Newcastle United. This marks the 30th Champions League season for Barcelona, a record they share with Real Madrid.
On the other side, Newcastle United, despite their elimination in the group stage in the 2023-24 European campaign, have shown resilience, especially at home. The Magpies have won four out of six games against Spanish opposition at St James' Park, and they recently secured a 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in their latest Premier League match.
The Catalan giants will be led by Hansi Flick, the coach who guided them to their second La Liga title in three seasons. Barcelona's attack will be boosted by the returns of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, who both scored braces in their 6-0 win over Valencia in La Liga. Anthony Gordon is also eligible after serving a domestic suspension, potentially replacing Harvey Barnes on the left. Marcus Rashford is also in contention for the attack.
However, Barcelona face fitness concerns. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal (groin), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (back), Gavi (knee), and Alejandro Balde (hamstring) remain sidelined. Depending on De Jong's availability, Marc Casado may partner Pedri in central midfield.
Newcastle United's European campaign this season includes matches against Barcelona, Benfica, Marseille, Bayer Leverkusen, and PSG. They will be without summer signings Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey as they continue recovery from knee and ankle injuries. Nick Woltemade, a summer signing for Newcastle United, scored the decisive goal in their latest match, and he will be a crucial factor for the Magpies.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle United's head coach, will be looking to exploit Barcelona's vulnerabilities and secure a historic win for his team. Anthony Elanga vies with Jacob Murphy for the opposite flank in Newcastle's squad, providing a formidable threat on the wings.
As both teams prepare to face off, the anticipation is palpable. Barcelona aims to assert dominance domestically and end their 11-year Champions League drought, while Newcastle United seeks to prove their European mettle. The stage is set for an exciting encounter in the Champions League.
