Opponent watch: Newcastle will be without key midfielder against Barcelona

Newcastle United will be the opponent of FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, with the draw for the same taking place earlier today.

The two teams have already met once this season, in the league phase of the competition at St. James’ Park, with Barça winning 2-1 courtesy of a Marcus Rashford brace.

Now, the Blaugrana will again lock horns with Eddie Howe’s side, over two legs, to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.

No Bruno Guimaraes for Newcastle

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, for the tie against Barça, Newcastle United will be without their main midfielder and captain – Bruno Guimaraes.

The Brazilian midfielder, Newcastle’s captain, had recorded nine goals and seven assists this season from 35 matches across all competitions.

But he suffered a right hamstring injury in the league match against Tottenham Hotspur earlier this month and will not be available to Eddie Howe for either leg against Barcelona.

Bruno Guimaraes is injured. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Guimaraes has travelled to Brazil with the club’s permission to continue his recovery, and barring a miracle, he will be a major absentee.

His injury is a significant blow for Newcastle, who also have defender Fabian Schar sidelined, along with Emil Krafth and Tino Livramento, plus midfielder Lewis Miley. The latter two could potentially return for the first leg.

Meanwhile, Jacob Ramsey is already back after missing the match against Qarabag FK due to fitness problems.

It must be remembered that, like Newcastle, Barcelona, too, are set to be without a key midfielder of their own as Frenkie de Jong is ruled out for five weeks with a hamstring injury.

Barça will take on Newcastle in the first leg on 10 March away at St. James’ Park, before hosting them at the Spotify Camp Nou a week later on 18 March.