Hansi Flick warns Barcelona of Newcastle threat ahead of Champions League test

Barcelona travel to St James' Park for the first leg of their last-16 tie as favourites, but Flick made it clear he is not underestimating the Premier League side.

"The Premier League is a great league - for me, it's the best league in the world," Flick said. "They have strong teams and the financial power to build very competitive squads. You can see the quality because several English clubs are still in the competition."

Despite that respect, Flick stressed that Barcelona's philosophy would remain unchanged.

"We have to continue our way, our style, how we want to play. This is our philosophy," he explained. "We want to play like Barca in the Champions League because our supporters are proud of how we play. That is what we want to show."

The German coach also warned about Newcastle's strengths, especially their pace in transition.

"The Champions League is different," Flick said. "At this stage every team wants to show their best level. They are very quick when they win the ball back, they have fast players and outstanding quality. We must manage those moments well."

Barcelona arrive in strong form domestically, sitting top of La Liga and building momentum at a crucial stage of the season. Flick believes focus will be decisive.

"It's one of the most important weeks of the season because we want to reach the next round," he said. "We are only thinking about this match."

However, the Spanish giants must cope with several injury absences. Key defenders and midfielders remain sidelined, although Marc Bernal has recovered from illness and is available.

In attack, on-loan forward Marcus Rashford is expected to feature alongside veteran striker Robert Lewandowski.

Creative responsibility will again fall on midfield star Pedri, who continues to dictate Barcelona's tempo and unlock deep defences with his passing in the final third.

Newcastle's domestic campaign has been inconsistent, but European nights have brought out their best performances. Flick knows his side must be alert.

"This competition demands total concentration," he said. "We must be ready."