Hansi Flick’s concerning record in Champions League away matches at Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona resumed their Champions League on Tuesday as they locked horns with Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, in what was the first of the two-legged Round of 16 clash.

However, it wasn’t the most delightful result for Barcelona, who were held to a 1:1 draw. The result could have been worse had it not been for a late Lamine Yamal penalty bailing them out.

The poor performance against Newcastle United laid bare Barcelona’s persisting weakness and Hansi Flick’s rather questionable record when it comes to Champions League away matches.

Flick’s record in UCL away matches

As pointed out by AS, while Flick has successfully instilled a more competitive mentality in the squad, the Blaugrana still struggle to exert dominance away from home in Europe.

Since the German tactician took charge of the team, Barcelona have managed to win only 50% of their away matches in the Champions League – a tally that includes two draws and four defeats.

Flick’s side had to endure a disappointing result vs Newcastle. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Last season, the team suffered losses in Monaco, Dortmund, and Milan. This year, the trend continued with a heavy defeat at Stamford Bridge, followed by draws at grounds like Bruges (3-3) and now Newcastle (1-1).

Even in ties where Barcelona appeared to have control, such as the 4-0 first-leg lead against Dortmund last year, they faltered in the return leg, eventually losing 3-1.

The contrast between Barcelona’s domestic and European form is becoming increasingly evident.

In La Liga, Flick’s win percentage sits at a healthy 70%, though even that figure has dipped this season following losses at the Bernabeu and Metropolitano.

Currently hampered by a depleted squad, including missing key full-backs Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde, as well as Frenkie de Jong, Flick admitted he would have taken the result in Newcastle before kickoff.

However, with the lack of sharpness from veteran leaders like Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, Flick must make sure his team can improve in the second leg at Camp Nou.