Hansi Flick says Barcelona have the quality to match the financial power of the "best in the world" Premier League as his team prepares for Tuesday's Champions League last-16 first leg against Newcastle United. The Spanish champions travel to St. James' Park for the second meeting with Newcastle this season, having won 2-1 in the league phase back in September.

Newcastle, one of six English clubs in the Champions League round of 16, have struggled domestically with three losses in their last five Premier League games. The Magpies sit 12th in the table and were eliminated from the FA Cup by Manchester City at the weekend. However, Flick recognizes the threat they pose, especially with passionate home support behind them.

The tie will be decided on March 18 at Spotify Camp Nou, where Barcelona will be without injured defenders Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde, and Andreas Christensen, plus midfielders Gavi and Frenkie de Jong. Marcus Rashford, who scored both goals when Barça beat Newcastle in September, could return after making his first start in a month.