Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s head coach, has pledged to adjust his on-field behaviour following a dramatic red card incident during Saturday’s La Liga clash against Girona. The 60-year-old, who has been at the helm of Barcelona since May 2024, admitted that he does not want his grandchildren to witness the temper that led to his dismissal.
The Girona Incident
The Barcelona manager first received a yellow card for sarcastically applauding the fourth official after he indicated four minutes of stoppage time. The gesture came as Barcelona struggled to convert opportunities with the score level.
Later, when Ronald Araujo scored a late winner for Barcelona, Flick’s celebrations escalated, prompting a second yellow card. The referee deemed one of his gestures obscene, resulting in a red card and ejection from the match.
Reflecting on the incident, Flick stated:
“I don’t like seeing myself in this state on television, and I don’t want my grandchildren to see their grandfather like that. So I probably have to change my behaviour.”
Flick’s Passion for Barcelona
At a press conference ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League clash against Olympiacos, Flick explained that the red card was a result of the depth of feeling he has for the club. Known for his disciplined demeanor during his tenure at Bayern Munich, where he won the Champions League in 2020, Flick admits that managing Barcelona has brought out more emotion on the touchline.
“I remember when I was coach of Bayern Munich, the footage of the match against Barca showed that I had the same reaction to the first, second and eighth goals. People said I never smiled! Right now I’m showing more emotion… because this club has completely changed me.”
Flick also emphasized his love for the club, stating:
“Maybe I should control my impulses, but I love Barca, Barcelona and its people, and that’s why I always give my all.”
Consequences of the Red Card
Flick’s dismissal comes with a touchline ban, which will see him confined to the stands during Barcelona’s highly anticipated El Clasico against Real Madrid on Sunday (15:15 BST). Despite the ban, Barcelona have announced they will appeal the referee’s decision.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta suggested that the officiating may have been biased, referring to a “white hand” favoring Real Madrid. Flick, however, declined to comment on claims of bias:
“I had nothing against the referee. I wasn’t complaining at him but he saw it that way and that’s something I have to accept.”
Flick’s Transformation at Barcelona
Flick’s journey from a calm, collected Bayern Munich coach to an expressive Barcelona manager highlights the impact the club has had on him. His passion for the team and emotional intensity on the sidelines reflect his commitment to the club’s fans and legacy.
Despite the red card, Flick remains focused on Barcelona’s domestic and European ambitions, emphasizing that his discipline will evolve for the sake of professionalism and family.
Key Takeaways
- Hansi Flick received a red card against Girona after two yellow card incidents.
- The Barcelona manager wants to control his emotions for his grandchildren.
- Flick has been more expressive at Barcelona compared to his Bayern Munich days.
- His touchline ban will affect the upcoming El Clasico vs Real Madrid, though Barcelona are appealing.
- Flick continues to show passion and commitment to Barcelona despite disciplinary setbacks.
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