"The Blaugrana begin their league phase campaign with designs on going one step further than their run to the semi-finals last season, with their hopes ended by Inter Milan in an epic last-four clash. But a trip to what will be a raucous St James' Park represents a tricky first assignment for Barca, one that will be even tougher without star man Yamal, who misses out with a groin problem."
"Yamal did not feature in the 6-0 thrashing of Valencia last weekend, having controversially played in both of Spain's World Cup qualifiers during the recent international break. The 18-year-old did not train ahead of those fixtures and reportedly took painkillers to be able to do so, the approach of the national team leading coach Hansi Flick to accuse the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) of not properly looking after players."
"There is good news for Barca, though, with midfielder Frenkie de Jong included in the squad to potentially make his first appearance since the season-opening 3-0 win over Mallorca. De Jong returned from international duty with a groin injury and missed the win over Valencia, but the former Ajax star could play a key role in midfield with Gavi unavailable."
Barcelona will be without Lamine Yamal, Gavi and Alejandro Balde for the Champions League opener against Newcastle United. Yamal misses the match with a groin problem and did not play in the 6-0 win over Valencia after controversially featuring in Spain's recent World Cup qualifiers. The 18-year-old reportedly did not train before those internationals and took painkillers, prompting Hansi Flick to accuse the Spanish Football Federation of inadequate player care. Gavi is sidelined with a knee issue and Balde with a hamstring injury. Frenkie de Jong is included in the squad and could return to midfield action.
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