Barcelona team news ahead of the Champions League second leg against Newcastle
Lamine Yamal and Gavi during training
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Barcelona warmed up for the visit of Newcastle United to the Camp Nou with a comfortable 5-2 victory over Sevilla to extend their lead at the top of La Liga.
The Catalans regained their attacking mojo after stuttering to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie at St James' Park. They did so, as well, without star forward Lamine Yamal, with the winger rested ahead of the second leg on Wednesday.
Yamal, who grabbed a last-gasp equaliser at St James' from the penalty spot, was an unused substitute as Barca boss Hansi Flick looked to rotate his players after a hectic run of fixtures.
The 18-year-old had been struggling with illness during the week but was fit enough to take his place on the bench. Flick said: "He needs to have a break and Roony can play and do well. He’s ready to step in if we need him."
In his absence, penalty duties went to winger Raphinha, who scored a hat-trick including two spot kicks as he left goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachomidos, on loan from Newcastle, floundering.
Raphinha has been struggling for form lately but the Brazilian's treble will go a long way in helping him boost his confidence heading into the Newcastle clash.
“We conceded two goals where we need to be a little more careful, but overall we played a spectacular game," the former Leeds forward said. "We need to minimize mistakes. Playing like this, it’s difficult for anyone to beat us.”
Barcelona were also boosted by the comeback of star midfielder Gavi. The Spanish international has missed the last seven months with a knee injury, but came on for Raphinha for the last 10 minutes against Sevilla.
The 21-year-old's return comes at a welcome time for Barcelona and Flick. Frenkie de Jong is still out injured which has meant an increased workload on Pedri and Marc Bernal during a brutal run of fixtures in recent weeks.
Gavi, who was previously out for a year in 2023 with an ACL injury, is delighted to return and has now targeted the Newcastle game as the next part of his comeback, though it remains to be seen whether he will be ready for such a high-intensity clash.
”It’s been very tough, to be honest," he said. "Much tougher than last time. I’ve had a really hard time. The process has been more painful and it’s been harder day to day. The feeling today at Camp Nou is unique. I’m very happy.
“I always give my all for this club. That’s how I’m going to continue for the rest of my life. Now comes Newcastle and then Rayo. They are tough opponents. I’m happy and now on to Newcastle at home.”
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