Hansi Flick fires Lamine Yamal warning to Newcastle and ponders Dani Olmo as a No. 9 for Champions League tie

Barcelona head into Wednesday’s decisive Champions League last-16 second leg against Newcastle knowing only victory will carry them into the quarter-finals, and Hansi Flick has hinted at a surprise attacking reshuffle. With Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres both mired in patchy form, the German coach admitted Dani Olmo could be deployed as a false nine at St James’ Park.

“It could be an option,” Flick said when asked about the Spain playmaker leading the line. “In matches like these, all the players are motivated. We need Ferran and Lewy at their best until the end of the season to achieve our goals. It’s crucial for us.”

While Flick stressed the importance of his senior strikers rediscovering their touch, he saved his most effusive praise for 17-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, whose last-gasp penalty in the first leg salvaged a draw and who was subsequently rested for the weekend LaLiga meeting with Sevilla. “Lamine is a player who can make a difference. He trained fantastically yesterday,” Flick revealed. “The Champions League is the best competition in the world, and everyone wants to play in it. It’s extra motivation for every player.”

Yamal, making his first appearance against Newcastle, is expected to start as Barcelona chase the goal that could extend their European campaign beyond the last 16.