Flick condemns racism and urges unity as Barcelona face Atlético | OneFootball

Hansi Flick condemned racist chanting heard during Spain v Egypt and discussed Barcelona’s options for Saturday’s meeting with Atlético after Raphinha’s injury.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, he said football and life have no room for racism and called for a united, unequivocal response and for firmness. He criticised a small minority behind the “Musulmán el que no bote” chant and noted that Lamine Yamal, whose father is Moroccan and mother Equatoguinean, is often targeted for being Muslim.

The teenager faced xenophobic abuse on his first visit to the Bernabéu with Barcelona, then similar songs were heard at Espanyol. On that occasion the chants were said not to be aimed at him, but at Egypt internationals, as he represents Spain. Flick said people seek respect regardless of colour, origin or religion, and that mindsets must change.

Raphinha will be out for one month, which Flick framed as part of football. He welcomed the availability of Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde, and Eric Garcia has overcome discomfort.

None of the trio is a forward, so Marcus Rashford will cover the wide role after his own fitness issues. Flick said it is a good moment for the loanee from Manchester United to show his level, while he declined to be definitive about Rashford’s future.

He has considered using Fermín and Gavi on the left, but not for the first of three meetings with Atlético in 11 days. He described Atlético as a fantastic side, among the best in La Liga and the Champions League.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo