Newcastle United and Barcelona are set to clash in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. Barcelona will be without several key players and is expected to feature a squad comprised of younger talent!
The match between Newcastle United and Barcelona is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11th, at 3:00 AM WIB. The second leg will be played at Barcelona’s home stadium on March 19th.
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The two teams previously met during the group stage of this Champions League season, with Barcelona securing a 2-1 victory at Newcastle United’s home ground in September thanks to a brace from Marcus Rashford.
However, Barcelona is currently dealing with injury concerns. According to The Athletic, three key players – Frenkie De Jong, Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde – are sidelined with hamstring injuries.
Manager Hansi Flick has called up three promising players from the La Masia academy: Tommy Marques, Alvaro Cortes, and Xavi Espart.
Xavi Espart is one to watch. The 18-year-vintage right-back is reportedly a bright prospect for the future!
Espart has already participated in several training sessions with the first team, and reports suggest Flick is impressed with his potential.
Could a graduate of La Masia prove to be the key for Barcelona against Newcastle?
(aff/mrp)
