Will Pedri’s presence be enough for Barcelona to secure a win against Newcastle United?
As FC Barcelona prepares to face Newcastle United in a pivotal UEFA Champions League match on March 10, 2026, the question arises: can Pedri, starting in the lineup, help guide his team to victory? The answer appears promising, as Barcelona previously triumphed over Newcastle 2-1 in the league phase of the tournament.
Barcelona’s current situation is complicated by the absence of several key players. Frenkie de Jong, Jules Kounde, Alejandro Balde, Gavi, and Andreas Christensen will not be available for this crucial match. Despite these setbacks, Marc Bernal has recovered from a stomach issue and is set to play, which may bolster the squad’s chances against their English opponents.
The team will adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Joan Garcia taking the position of starting goalkeeper. The defensive line will feature Eric Garcia and Joao Cancelo as full-backs, while Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin will serve as center-backs. This setup aims to provide a solid foundation for the team as they look to advance in the tournament.
In the midfield, Fermin Lopez is expected to take on the No. 10 role, providing creativity and support to the attacking players. Raphinha will start on one wing, while Lamin Yamal will occupy the opposite flank. Up front, Robert Lewandowski is anticipated to lead the attack, bringing his experience and goal-scoring ability to the forefront.
Hansi Flick, the coach of the German national team, has praised the quality of Barcelona’s squad, noting their impressive performances, particularly in their recent match against Athletic Club in Bilbao. This endorsement highlights the potential for a strong showing from the Catalan side, even with the missing players.
Barcelona’s objective remains clear: to progress to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. The stakes are high as they face a formidable Newcastle United team, and the outcome of this match could significantly impact their season.
As the match approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Pedri and the rest of the squad perform under pressure. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the lineup or strategy, but the anticipation surrounding this encounter continues to build.
