Hansi Flick confirms Barcelona is his final club before Newcastle tie
Hansi Flick has revealed that Barcelona will be his final managerial role as he prepares to sign a new contract ahead of their crucial Champions League clash with Newcastle United.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta recently announced that the 61-year-old German is on the verge of extending his stay in Catalonia.
Despite the revelation regarding his future, the head coach insists his immediate priority is guiding the La Liga leaders into the European quarter-finals.
“In football, I always aim for the highest level,” stated the former Bayern Munich boss. “I’m not thinking about leaving, Barca will be my last club.”
Focus shifts to European ambitions
The Catalan giants host Eddie Howe’s side at a redeveloping Nou Camp on Wednesday following a tense 1-1 draw in the first leg at St James’ Park.
A dramatic stoppage-time penalty from Lamine Yamal salvaged a crucial away result for the visitors after Harvey Barnes had opened the scoring for the Magpies.
“They press high, they’re very quick and they defend well,” noted the tactician. “It will be a tough, very physical match.”
Perfect home record on the line
The five-time European champions have maintained a flawless record at their home venue this season, winning all 12 of their domestic and continental fixtures.
Teenage defender Pau Cubarsi started during the intense first-leg encounter in England and acknowledges the physical threat posed by the Premier League outfit.
“Their intensity on the pitch is incredible,” the 19-year-old admitted. “Defensively we were very solid, but going forward we lacked a bit of tempo.”
Having already defeated the Tyneside club 2-1 during the group stages, the Spanish heavyweights know another victory will secure their progression in Europe’s premier club competition.
