NEWCASTLE — Barcelona’s return to the Champions League could hardly have been more testing: a noisy St James’ Park, a hungry Newcastle side, and the weight of expectation. Yet in a 2-1 victory on Thursday night, it was two familiar figures who steadied the Catalan giants — Pedri and Frenkie de Jong.
The pair may not have grabbed the headlines in the way Marcus Rashford did with his double, but their control of the game was striking. Pedri, still only 22, dictated the tempo with assurance well beyond his years. He completed 84 passes with 91 percent accuracy, threading balls into dangerous areas and winning more duels than any other player on the pitch.
De Jong, back after injury, looked as if he had never been away. The Dutch midfielder led all players with 86 completed passes, finding team-mates with near-perfect precision. His blend of calm distribution and tireless defensive work — three tackles and two interceptions — helped Barcelona blunt Newcastle’s pressing game.
“They make it look easy,” said Barcelona coach Hansi Flick afterwards. “When the pressure is high, they give us control. That is their strength.”
For long stretches, Newcastle chased shadows as the midfield duo found space and angles that seemed impossible. Their link-up not only ensured possession but also allowed Barça’s forwards to flourish in the final third.
This performance was not an isolated display. Pedri currently ranks among Europe’s best midfielders for progressive play, while De Jong continues to excel in both passing and carrying the ball. Together, they form the spine of a side that last season lifted a domestic treble but fell just short in Europe.
Flick knows bigger challenges await. “It’s only the first step,” he said. “We have to keep building, but tonight was important.”
For Barcelona supporters, there is reason for optimism. In Pedri and De Jong, they have a midfield partnership as assured as any in Europe — one capable of guiding the club back towards its greatest heights.
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