oi-Soumyaroop Mukherjee
Barcelona Predicted XI: FC Barcelona is expected to go all guns blazing with their strongest lineup as they prepare to host Newcastle in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash at Camp Nou.
Heading into this high-stakes encounter, Flick is likely to retain a largely unchanged backline following an impressive performance against Sevilla FC. Joan García, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, and João Cancelo are expected to start, forming the defensive backbone.
The only selection dilemma remains at right-back, where Eric García is likely to get the nod over Ronald Araújo, thanks to his superior ball distribution. With Garcia in the
In midfield, Dani Olmo has made a strong case for inclusion after an impactful cameo in the first leg and a standout display in the weekend fixture. He is expected to replace Fermín López in the starting XI. Youngster Marc Bernal, alongside Pedri, will anchor the midfield. The main task of both of them is to take control of the possession in the middle against the stout midfield of Newcastle.
Attack Led By Yamal And Raphinha
Up front, Raphinha comes into the clash in red-hot form after a hat-trick performance, while Lamine Yamal is expected to return fresh on the right flank.
The centre-forward role remains a concern, with both Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres struggling for consistency. However, Lewandowski’s vast European experience could see him lead the line, despite competition from Marcus Rashford, who is not viewed as a natural striker in Flick’s system.
What Are The Stakes For Camp Nou?
With a place in the quarter-finals on the line, Barcelona will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and deliver a more dominant performance than in the first leg. Newcastle, however, remains a dangerous opponent, ensuring a tightly contested European night in Catalonia.
Barcelona Predicted Starting XI Against Newcastle
Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Joao Cancelo, Marc Bernal, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Ferran Torres.
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Story first published: Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 22:54 [IST]
