(DDM) – Former FC Barcelona midfielder and current sporting director Deco has admitted that the Spanish club faces a challenging task after being drawn against Newcastle United in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.
Deco emphasized that matches at this stage of the competition are always demanding, and Barça must approach the tie with focus and intensity.
The draw confirmed that Barcelona will meet Newcastle, who earned their spot in the last 16 by overcoming Qarabağ FK in the knockout playoffs.
Newcastle previously lost to Barcelona during the league phase of the competition but remain a dangerous opponent, according to Deco.
Speaking at the official draw ceremony, Deco acknowledged that opinions may differ on whether the matchup favors Barcelona.
He insisted, however, that every opponent in the Champions League knockout rounds presents a serious challenge.
“Every team at this level is tough. We must prepare seriously and treat each leg with maximum focus,” he said.
Barcelona will host the second leg of the tie, which Deco believes could offer a potential advantage.
At the same time, he cautioned that the home-leg benefit only materializes if the team performs effectively in the first leg.
He recalled Barcelona’s previous away victory against Newcastle, noting that the win required significant effort and concentration.
Looking ahead, the Catalan club could face the winner of the quarter-final clash between Atletico Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur.
Deco acknowledged the possibility of another difficult encounter with Atlético, highlighting that the two Spanish sides have already met multiple times this season, including in the Copa del Rey.
The sporting director also provided a fitness update on midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who recently suffered a hamstring strain in training.
Deco expects the Dutch international to be sidelined for approximately three to five weeks, making a return before the international break unlikely.
He emphasized the importance of squad fitness as Barcelona prepares for high-stakes matches in Europe.
Deco’s comments underline the competitive nature of the Champions League knockout stages, where even previously defeated opponents can pose significant challenges.
The Blaugrana will now focus on tactical preparation and ensuring key players are ready for the upcoming fixtures.
With a mix of home advantage and careful planning, Barcelona aims to advance to the quarter-finals despite the demanding draw.
The upcoming clash with Newcastle is expected to test both the physical and mental resilience of the squad, according to Deco.
Fans and analysts alike are closely watching Barcelona’s approach, with attention on whether they can secure a strong result in the first leg away.
Ultimately, Deco stressed that preparation, mindset, and intensity will determine the outcome in this high-profile European tie.
