Barcelona president defends Flick’s celebration and red card vs Girona – ‘Part of the passion of football’ | OneFootball

During his participation at the World in Progress: A Safe Future forum, FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed his full support for coach Hansi Flick, who was sent off against Girona.

Laporta also discussed the upcoming El Clasico, the league match against Villarreal scheduled to be played in Miami, and the club’s global reach.

On Hansi Flick

Flick, usually known for his calm and composed demeanour on the touchline, was very animated this weekend against Girona.

The Barcelona manager was sparked into wild celebrations after Ronald Araujo’s late goal that proved to be the eventual match-winner, while he was also sent off by referee Gil Manzano for protests over some decisions.

Speaking in defence of Flick, Laporta praised the German tactician’s energy and enthusiasm, as he remarked:

“Hansi Flick is a very serious person, who plans everything, but at the same time, he has a special sensitivity, you can see that in his dealings with the players.

“I’m in favour of Flick. He’s human, and a reaction like the one he had in football can happen. It’s normal and part of the passion of football; it’s not meant to hurt anyone.”

Flick was sent off late in the game vs Girona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Pointing fingers at referee Gil Manzano over Flick’s sending-off, Laporta added: “Gil Manzano made a mistake waiting for Flick’s reaction. He could have turned around and continued.

“That’s when the sending-off came. He reacted in the last minute when we scored the goal.”

On the Clasico and Villarreal vs Barcelona in Miami

Laporta also took the opportunity to discuss the upcoming Clasico, as Barcelona face Real Madrid on Sunday, 26 October, at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“We are rivals and we’re playing for the top spot. The current relationship with Real Madrid is one of institutional respect,” the Barcelona chief stated.

Laporta went on to comment on the match Barcelona will play in Miami against Villarreal in December, an initiative defended by La Liga president Javier Tebas. Despite the controversy surrounding players’ protests over the weekend, Laporta backed the move, saying:

“[It is a] positive for the American fans. Barça has a lot of fans in that area, and it is beneficial for the club’s international projection.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo