Hansi Flick admits he is aware of the physical size and strength of Newcastle United ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League opener at St James’ Park on Thursday night. The German coach praised Eddie Howe’s work in transforming the Magpies into a dynamic and physical side, while stressing the need for his own players to adapt quickly in what he expects will be one of the toughest atmospheres in Europe.
Barcelona to face challenges against 'tall' Newcastle
Barcelona begin their Champions League campaign with a trip to Newcastle in Gameweek One. Flick has been clear about the challenge awaiting his team, describing Newcastle as a tall, intense, and physically strong outfit, especially following their signing of 6ft 6in Nick Woltemade this summer.
AdvertisementGettyFlick expects aerial threat – praises Howe's job at Newcastle
Speaking to the media, Flick said: "I have never been here [St. James' Park]. My players tell me it is maybe the best atmosphere in the Premier League. I expect a really strong team, a tall team with a high intensity, with a lot of dynamic to go in the second balls vertically. They are playing really well. It is a team that has been built over the last years. Eddie Howe and his coaching staff have done a fantastic job."
He added: "We have to adapt to the opponents, and we will do it. Every match plan is like that to adapt to what we have to do against the style of the opponents. We do not have a long time to train because every three or four days we are playing but it's normal. But I think that the players are able to play against this style.",
AFPBarcelona's plan against Woltemade
Barcelona know they must adapt to Newcastle’s intensity, but the aerial threat of Woltemade is viewed as a key challenge for the relatively short Blaugrana backline. The German forward has already shown his ability to make an impact, and his 6ft 6in frame poses a major problem for any defence. As per SPORT, Flick is relying on Ronald Araujo to step up and neutralise him, with the Uruguayan’s physicality and aerial strength seen as Barcelona’s best answer. However, Araujo faces a lot of pressure after his slow start to the season, which has seen Eric Garcia replace him as a starter.
Barcelona looking to kick off UCL campaign with statement win
Barcelona will aim to get their Champions League journey off to a winning start, though Flick knows it won’t come easily. Araujo’s ability to contain Woltemade could be decisive in determining the outcome. For Newcastle, it’s a chance to prove themselves against one of Europe’s heavyweights in front of a raucous home crowd.