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Fingers crossed - Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali fitness update for crucial Champions League clash with Barcelona revealed

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has shared an update on Sandro Tonali’s fitness ahead of the pivotal Champions League match against Barcelona at the Spotify Camp Nou. Learn more about Tonali's condition and other key updates here.

Fingers crossed - Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali fitness update for crucial Champions League clash with Barcelona revealed

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has provided an update on Sandro Tonali’s fitness ahead of a huge game in the Champions League against Barcelona at the Spotify Camp Nou. The former AC Milan man fell victim to a bug that has been spreading through the first-team squad over the last few weeks, leaving the coaching staff sweating on his fitness ahead of the second leg against Hansi Flick's side.When asked if Tonali would be available for the trip to Spotify Camp Nou, Howe said: “Yeah, we hope so. He was feeling unwell after training Friday. It quickly became apparent that he wouldn't be able to travel. So, fingers crossed it follows a similar pattern with the other illnesses we've had and it's quite a quick recovery. There's been something going around now for two to three weeks in the squad. Fingers crossed, it's the same.”The illness that struck Tonali is part of a wider trend at the club. Jacob Ramsey, Nick Woltemade, and Anthony Gordon have all been affected recently. Ramsey was hooked at half-time against Everton, while Woltemade missed the Manchester United victory entirely. Gordon was also limited to a bench role against Barcelona in the first leg due to the same issue.With the aggregate score locked at 1-1, Howe is desperate to have a full-strength midfield. The Magpies travel to Spain for a Wednesday evening kick-off, knowing that Tonali's energy will be vital if they are to overcome the Catalan giants. The club is monitoring the Italian closely to see if he can board the plane to Barcelona following his weekend rest.Beyond Tonali, Newcastle’s medical department is working overtime. Joe Willock is the latest concern after suffering a muscle injury against Chelsea, and Lewis Miley remains a doubt despite nearing a return from a thigh problem. Howe has been forced to navigate a difficult period with several key stars currently occupying the treatment room including Bruno Guimaraes. The Brazilian is set to travel to Spain with the squad, but will not play due to a hamstring injury, while Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth remain out. Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingAhead of Barcelona's match against Newcastle next Wednesday at the Spotify Camp Nou, Hansi Flick's men sent a strong warning to their rivals for a Champions League quarter-final spot by beating Sevilla 5-2 in La Liga.The match was highlighted by a standout performance from Raphinha, who scored a superb hat-trick to lead Barcelona’s dominant display. Meanwhile, teenage star Lamine Yamal, who netted the dramatic equaliser against Newcastle in the first leg, was given a rest. The teenager started on the bench but did feature in the second half.

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Newcastle’s battle with illness

Newcastle United has been hit by a wave of illnesses, with Sandro Tonali being the latest victim. The Italian midfielder fell unwell after training, leading to concerns about his availability for the clash with Barcelona. Howe remains hopeful that Tonali will recover in time to join the team in Spain, but the club is closely monitoring his situation.

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Injury concerns for Newcastle

In addition to dealing with illnesses, Newcastle is also facing injury worries. Joe Willock and Lewis Miley are among the players currently sidelined, adding to Howe's selection headaches. With key stars like Bruno Guimaraes, Fabian Schar, and Emil Krafth also out, the Magpies are navigating through a challenging period in terms of squad fitness.

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Barcelona's warning shot

Barcelona sent a strong message to Newcastle ahead of their Champions League showdown by defeating Sevilla 5-2 in La Liga. Raphinha's hat-trick stole the show, underlining the threat posed by Hansi Flick's side. While teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was given a break in that match, his presence could be felt in the crucial tie against Newcastle.

Published on Mar 15, 2026