Hansi Flick Denies Media Claims Over Team Selection Crisis

Barcelona, Spain – Head coach Hansi Flick addressed the media on Friday to deny recent claims about his relationship with the FC Barcelona board amid a challenging period for the team.

Flick’s comments came after reports suggested he faced pressure from the club’s management regarding his team selection, particularly concerning 18-year-old Lamine Yamal. It was alleged that Yamal arrived late to a team meeting prior to a Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain, leading to Flick’s decision to bench the young player.

However, Flick dismissed these reports as “complete bulls–t” during the news conference. “Whoever invented that, he is lying,” he stated emphatically. “I never would do that. Our club has confidence in us, and they would never intervene in such matters.”

Yamal’s late arrival reportedly stemmed from a groin injury that has limited his playtime this season. Flick noted that Yamal had only started one match since August, missing several games due to his condition. While he returned to training, Yamal’s future playing time remains uncertain.

Flick also expressed concern over missing several key attackers in upcoming matches, including Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski. He acknowledged the challenges but emphasized the need to find solutions. “We are missing a lot of players, but we must figure it out. Whether it’s young players or others, we need to be ready,” he said.

The coach is determined to improve the team’s performance after back-to-back defeats against PSG and Sevilla. “It’s all about attitude and mentality. We must fight every game for every title this season,” Flick urged.

Looking ahead, Barcelona will face Girona and then compete against Bayern Munich in the Champions League before the much-anticipated Clásico against Real Madrid on October 26. Flick expects some of his injured players, including Torres and Raphinha, to return by then.