"We have to have that mentality (it is the biggest game in our recent history)," Howe said in his pre-match press conference. Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall took to the stage and was inevitably asked about whether he feared the challenge of facing Barcelona's biggest threat, right-winger Lamine Yamal. "He is a special talent and I have seen him in enough Champions League games to see what he is about. And there is just a feeling it is an opportunity Newcastle could take. ‌Barcelona may be the reigning Spanish champions and head to Tyneside as La Liga leaders but it all isn't sunshine and roses in Catalonia.

Source: Daily Mirror March 10, 2026 16:22 UTC