Newcastle will take on Barcelona in the first match of the UEFA Champions League. Barcelona, a semifinalist from last season, faces off against Newcastle, a surprising contender in the Premier League, with both teams expected to play their top players.
Barcelona comes into this match following a strong 6-0 win over Valencia in LaLiga, where they rested key players like Lewandowski and Raphinha but still earned a convincing victory. Both players contributed to the scoreline after being substituted into the game.
Newcastle has had a mixed start to their Premier League season, with a loss to Liverpool, three draws, and a recent 1-0 win against Wolves. Their midfield, featuring Guimaraes, Tonali, and Joelinton, has been quite effective.
Eddie Howe will rely on his team’s solid defense, which has marked their good performance so far this season. However, facing the Spanish champions will be a significant challenge.
Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona.
Barcelona expected lineup vs Newcastle
Under Hansi Flick’s management, Barcelona arrives in Tyneside with a few injury issues. Lamine Yamal is out for the group stage due to a groin injury, along with Marc-André ter Stegen, Alejandro Balde, and Gavi. Flick may start Marcus Rashford in his lineup.
The expected lineup for Barcelona includes: Joan Garcia; Gerard Martin, Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde; Marc Casado, Pedri, Fermin Lopez; Raphinha, Rashford, Robert Lewandowski.
Newcastle expected lineup vs Barcelona
Newcastle looks forward to the return of winger Anthony Gordon, who is set to start following a suspension. New signing Nick Woltemade also aims to make his Champions League debut in this match, leading the Newcastle attack.
The expected XI for Newcastle includes: Nick Pope; Valentino Livramento, Daniel Burn, Fabian Schar, Kieran Trippier; Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes; Anthony Gordon, Nick Woltemade, Anthony Elanga.