Barcelona make key adjustment to their itinerary ahead of CL clash vs Newcastle United | OneFootball

After coming close to pulling off a great comeback against Atletico Madrid, Barcelona will look to continue their winning momentum as they take on Athletic Club this weekend.

It is a must-win game for the Catalans, who remain at the top of the table with a respectable four-point lead at the top, thanks to Real Madrid’s recent mishaps.

However, coach Hansi Flick will have one eye on the upcoming match against Newcastle United, in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16.

Barcelona make key change to their itinerary

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have made one key adjustment to their itinerary heading into the upcoming matches against Athletic Club and Newcastle United.

Instead of opting for a connecting flight, Barcelona have decided to fly directly from Bilbao to Newcastle, after their match against Athletic Club.

Barcelona play at St. James’ Park next Tuesday. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

This has been arranged in order to ensure that the players receive optimum rest, considering they would have to face a gruelling away fixture in Newcastle on Tuesday.

Therefore, Barcelona will stay the Saturday night in Bilbao before jetting off to Newcastle on Sunday, rather than taking a detour back to Barcelona or opting for a connecting flight.

Upon reaching Newcastle, Barça are expected to stay Maften Hall Hotel, a tranquil resort with a spa and golf course located half an hour from Newcastle 

The Catalans are expected to hold a training session on Monday afternoon at St. James’ Park, which will be followed by a press conference from Hansi Flick and an accompanying player.

It must be noted that Barcelona have already played at St. James’ Park this season, notably opening their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win over the Tyneside outfit, during the first half of the season.