Barcelona have been hit with a huge blow ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash against Premier League side Newcastle United.
Hansi Flicks’ side produced a stunning performance on Sunday night as they battered Valencia 6-0 at the Estadi Johan Cruyff. Fermin Lopez, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski all scored twice as the Catalonia giant closed the gap to Real Madrid to just two points.
Barcelona will be back in action on Thursday night when they take on Newcastle in the Champions League.
However, they have been handed a major blow before their quest to win Europe’s most prestigious club competition.
According to Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo, Lamine Yamal is set to be ruled out of the match against Newcastle.
It is believed that Yamal is being treated after feeling discomfort in his pubic area and barring a miracle, will have to sit out Thursday night’s big match.
Lamine Yamal celebrates a goal during the Spanish League match played between Rayo Vallecano and FC Barcelona. (Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images)
On a brighter mode, Barcelona will have Hansi Flick in he dugout following a successful appeal. The German was originally banned for one match by UEFA for his behaviour during Barcelona’s semi-final defeat against Inter Milan.
It has since been confirmed that the ban is now suspended for a period of one year.
As per Tribal Football, a statement from UEFA read: “Said suspension is suspended during a probationary period of one (1) year, starting from the date of the present decision.”
In addition, midfielder Frenkie de Jong could also return against Newcastle after recovering from his latest injury.
After missing the weekend’s match against Valencia, De Jong is said to have returned to training on Monday ahead of Thursday’s Champions League opener.
