No excuses from Flick as Barcelona’s European dream collapses: ‘Don’t want to talk about the referee’ | OneFootball

Hansi Flick cut a frustrated yet composed figure after Barcelona were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League by Atletico Madrid, despite securing a 2-1 win in the second leg. 

The Catalan side fell short on aggregate, with several contentious refereeing decisions casting a shadow over what was otherwise a strong performance.

Barcelona came into the second leg with belief and intensity, dominating large spells of the game, particularly in the first half. 

However, missed chances and key moments going against them ultimately proved costly.

Speaking about the immediate mood in the dressing room, Flick made it clear that the players were struggling to come to terms with how the match unfolded.

“We’re disappointed; we had plenty of chances, especially in the first half. We had the chance to score a third goal, but we ended up conceding that goal instead.”

The disallowed goal

One of the defining moments of the tie arrived when Ferran Torres had a goal ruled out, a decision that could have significantly shifted momentum. 

Barcelona have been eliminated from the Champions League. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Flick acknowledged the incident indirectly, choosing instead to praise his team’s resilience, particularly after going down to ten men.

“We played a fantastic game and did so with one man down. I really appreciate that. 

“We just didn’t have much luck. That’s how it went, and we have to accept it.”

Despite the elimination, Flick ensured his players understood that their performance across both legs deserved recognition. 

He stressed that Barcelona had done enough to progress, even if the result suggested otherwise.

“I think we deserved to be in the semifinals, but we have to accept the result. 

“We played a great series, and I’m proud of my players. We have to accept the result.”

Refereeing decisions

As expected, the refereeing decisions became a central topic in the post-match discussion. 

However, Flick deliberately avoided fuelling the controversy, maintaining a calm and professional stance.

“I don’t want to talk about that, because we can’t change it. We can’t change those things. 

“We have to accept it. It’s good for you that I talk about it, but I just don’t want to.”

Looking ahead, the German coach highlighted the importance of growth within a young Barcelona squad. 

He pointed out that experiences like these, dealing with red cards, VAR decisions, and high-pressure scenarios, are all part of the team’s development.

“The players need to take the next step. We’re a young team, and we’re going to improve. I think what matters today is what we’re doing. 

“We’re working with the players. We’re disappointed, of course. But that’s football, and life.”

There is La Liga to win

There were several controversial decisions. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

With their European journey now over, Barcelona’s full attention shifts to La Liga, where they remain heavy favourites. 

Flick made it clear that the priority is to secure the league crown, regardless of when it is achieved, even if it comes against rivals Real Madrid.

“For me, it doesn’t matter when we win it. The important thing is to win it. We can focus on La Liga. 

“It’s tough. Everyone thought we could do it; we’re disappointed, but we have to accept it.”

Finally, Flick addressed the project at Barcelona, suggesting that while progress is evident, the squad still needs to evolve to reach the very top in Europe again.

“We’ll see when the season ends. We want to win La Liga and we have to work hard to win it. I know the importance of the title. 

“I know everyone wanted to win the Champions League and it’s a fantastic competition. But in the end, winning the league title is fantastic. 

“We’re on the right track, but we still have work to do. After that, we’ll analyse the season and see what needs to be done.”

Source: AS