Barcelona Coach Flick Returns After UEFA Ban Appeal Ahead Newcastle

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick will be able to lead his team from the bench in their Champions League opener against Newcastle United after successfully appealing a one-match suspension handed down for his conduct during last season’s semi-final defeat to Inter Milan. UEFA partially upheld the appeal, suspending the ban during a probationary period of one year, although Flick and assistant Marcus Sorg were fined €20,000 each and remain under close monitoring. The lifted suspension is a significant boost for Barcelona ahead of the challenging away match, especially as Newcastle will miss key summer signings due to injury. Additionally, Thiago Alcantara has returned to Barcelona’s coaching staff in a flexible role approved by Flick, serving as a key communicator and mentor to the midfielders, further strengthening the team's tactical and personal support structure.