FC Barcelona will be without midfielder Frenkie de Jong for their upcoming UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Newcastle United, dealing a blow to manager Hansi Flick ahead of the first leg at St James’ Park.
Fresh from their weekend victory over Athletic Club, the Catalan giants have now shifted focus to Europe, with Flick’s squad already in England as they prepare for Tuesday’s crucial encounter.
However, Barcelona will have to cope without De Jong, who impressed during the club’s previous visit to Tyneside earlier in the competition.
In De Jong’s absence, highly rated youngster Marc Bernal is expected to step into the starting lineup.
The teenage midfielder has grown into an important player in recent weeks, earning regular starts and delivering composed performances in the middle of the park.
There were some concerns surrounding Bernal’s availability after he was substituted at half-time during Barcelona’s match at San Mamés Stadium.
Flick later revealed the youngster had experienced physical “problems” during the game.
Reports indicate that Bernal’s issue was related to illness, with the midfielder suffering stomach discomfort during the match.
Fortunately for Barcelona, the problem does not appear to be serious.
Bernal has travelled with the squad to Newcastle and is expected to recover in time for kick-off, although the club’s medical staff will continue to monitor his condition closely ahead of training sessions.
The midfield contest could prove decisive when the two sides meet at St James’ Park.
Newcastle will also be missing a key figure, with Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimarães sidelined through injury.
Despite De Jong’s absence, Barcelona still possess plenty of quality in midfield, with stars like Pedri and Bernal expected to shoulder the responsibility against Newcastle’s physical trio of Sandro Tonali and Joelinton.
For now, Barcelona remain confident Bernal will be fit enough to feature, as Flick’s side look to secure a positive result in the first leg of their Champions League knockout tie.
