Arteta explains why Barcelona struggled against Newcastle United: ‘We saw a completely different game’ | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta recently spoke about the clash between Newcastle United and Barcelona, which ended in a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park.

Although the result leaves the tie wide open ahead of the second leg in Spain, Arteta focused on how Newcastle managed to disrupt Barcelona’s usual playing style.

The Arsenal coach, who began his career as a young player at Barcelona’s academy La Masia, pointed out that the Catalan side were unable to control the game in the way they normally do in La Liga.

“We didn’t see the Barça of 1,000 passes in Newcastle,” he began, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

Analysing the draw

According to the Spaniard, Newcastle’s aggressive pressing and physical approach made it extremely difficult for Barcelona to impose their usual possession-based game.

He continued by reinforcing his point while discussing how the match differed from Barcelona’s typical performances in Spain.

“Did you see the 1,000 passes Barcelona makes every week in Spain? No.”

Arteta also made sure to highlight Newcastle’s performance, giving significant credit to the way the English side approached the match tactically.

Barcelona played a 1-1 draw against Newcastle United. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

“Can it be a beautiful game? Yes. But Newcastle played that way and deserves great credit for how they did it.”

The Arsenal manager then explained the qualities that allowed Newcastle to compete so effectively with one of Europe’s most technically gifted teams.

“Newcastle are exceptional in their intensity and high pressing, playing man-to-man and with a wide range of tools.”

Praise for Barcelona

Despite emphasising Newcastle’s tactical strength, Arteta also acknowledged the quality of Hansi Flick’s Barcelona side. 

He described the Catalan club as one of the most entertaining teams to watch in European football.

“Barcelona is often the most exciting team in Europe because of the way they play.”

However, the Arsenal manager insisted that the match showed just how effective Newcastle’s approach was.

“We saw a completely different game than I’ve ever seen Barcelona play, and that’s a huge credit to Newcastle, but this is the league we’re playing in,” he said.