Eddie Howe admits Newcastle will face Barcelona without one of their most important players: ‘He’ll travel, but not to play’ | OneFootball

Barcelona may have received a timely boost ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg against Newcastle United at Spotify Camp Nou. 

With the tie perfectly balanced after the first leg, every small advantage could prove decisive for Hansi Flick’s side.

The first meeting between the two teams ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw at St. James’ Park. 

Newcastle appeared to be heading towards a valuable away victory before Barcelona managed to score late in the match, leaving the contest wide open ahead of the return leg in Catalonia.

Because of that result, the upcoming match at Camp Nou will effectively act as a winner-takes-all clash. 

However, the Catalan side could benefit from an important absence in the Newcastle squad.

What’s the story?

According to Eddie Howe, Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes will travel with the team to Barcelona but will not take part in the match due to fitness concerns. 

The Brazilian has been one of the Premier League side’s most influential players this season, so his absence could significantly affect Eddie Howe’s plans.

Bruno Guimaraes will be unavailable against Barcelona. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Speaking during his pre-match press conference ahead of Newcastle’s Premier League fixture against Chelsea, Howe provided an update on the midfielder’s condition and confirmed that he will not feature against Barcelona.

“Bruno will be back on Monday. He plans to travel to Barcelona—not to play, but to support his teammates. 

“He’s done an incredible job with his recovery. I’m hopeful that he’ll be ready to play after the international break,” Howe said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

A significant loss

Guimaraes has been sidelined since suffering a thigh injury on February 10 during Newcastle’s match against Tottenham Hotspur. 

Since then, the midfielder has missed eight consecutive games while focusing on his recovery.

Meanwhile, despite the setback and the late goal conceded in the first leg against Barcelona, Howe expressed pride in how his team has responded throughout the season.

“The players have responded very well. Of course, it was a huge disappointment to concede that goal at the end [against Barcelona], but I’m very proud of the overall performance. 

“This season, the players have shown great resilience in the face of results, disappointments, and successes,” Howe said.