- He questioned why the video review system failed to step in
- Barcelona had begun the match on the front foot, creating early opportunities and showing attacking intent
- The coach also singled out Lamine Yamal for praise, describing him as a future star
Tension ran high at FC Barcelona following their 0–2 loss to Atlético de Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou, with head coach Hansi Flick openly criticizing the officiating after the match.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Flick expressed strong dissatisfaction with the use of VAR, pointing to a crucial incident involving a handball in the penalty area by Pubill that went unpunished.
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He questioned why the video review system failed to step in, arguing that such calls can significantly influence the outcome of a game.
The German coach also made a pointed remark about VAR official Christian Dingert, reflecting his frustration over the decision.
Barcelona had begun the match on the front foot, creating early opportunities and showing attacking intent. Marcus Rashford and Lamine Yamal were lively on the flanks, while Pedri controlled the midfield despite not being at full fitness.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically after a red card was shown to Pau Cubarsí in a decision that also sparked debate.
Reduced to ten men, Barcelona soon conceded from a free kick converted by Julián Álvarez just before halftime, a goal that proved decisive.
Despite the setback, Flick commended his players for their determination and performance, insisting the final score did not accurately reflect the balance of play. He maintained that the contest is still open and far from decided.
The coach also singled out Lamine Yamal for praise, describing him as a future star.
He urged officials to offer greater protection to young talents, drawing comparisons with players like Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and Pedri, stressing the need to safeguard emerging stars.
Although trailing 0–2, Barcelona remain hopeful of a comeback. Flick emphasized that the team now turns its focus to the next leg, confident that they have the quality to respond and potentially overturn the deficit.
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