Three things you might have missed from Barcelona 2-1 Real Sociedad | OneFootball

Barcelona returned to Montjuic to host their third home game of the 2025/26 season, taking on Real Sociedad in a thrilling 2-1 win under Hansi Flick.

The match marked another unusual chapter in Barça’s season, as the team had to quickly adapt the Olympic Stadium to host the league fixture.

The club worked at a remarkable pace to prepare the pitch and facilities, ensuring everything was ready for kick-off.

This same stadium will also host next Wednesday’s Champions League clash against PSG, highlighting the logistical challenges Barcelona continue to face.

The match was notable for the return of Lamine Yamal, who came back from injury and immediately made his presence felt on the field.

His energy and quick impact reminded fans why he is seen as one of the brightest talents in the squad.

While the goal action dominated headlines, several interesting moments unfolded behind the scenes, unnoticed by viewers at home or even some fans at Montjuïc.

Thiago Alcantara’s appearance

One of the most interesting stories off the pitch involved Thiago Alcantara. Since returning to Hansi Flick’s staff, Thiago has kept a low profile, taking on a supporting role.

He does not travel to away games and is rarely on the bench during home matches. Yesterday, he was seen chatting with other staff members during warm-ups and later moving to the analyst booths.

Thiago focused on observing injured players and providing advice to Flick when needed, staying close but out of the public eye.

During warm-ups, he joined the players on the pitch, showing support, though his role remains subtle.

Presence of injured players

Meanwhile, Barcelona’s injured players were also present in the stadium, keeping a watchful eye on the action from behind the bench.

Notably absent were Gavi and Joan Garcia, who recently had surgery. Players like Alejandro Balde, Fermin Lopez, and Raphinha were in attendance, though Raphinha kept a low profile in a cap and hooded jacket.

Fermin took a moment during half-time to congratulate Roony Bardghji, showing the camaraderie within the squad even when players are sidelined.

Hansi Flick’s reaction

The match also revealed Hansi Flick’s well-known passion and impatience with refereeing decisions. In the second half, Flick expressed significant anger after an offside involving Takefusa Kubo.

The assistant referee took an unusually long time to raise the flag, which frustrated Flick, particularly under the current regulations, where most plays are allowed to continue until fully resolved.

He spent several moments speaking to the fourth official, clearly irritated by the delay, highlighting his attention to detail and the intensity he brings to every game.

Barcelona’s return to Montjuïc was more than just a match. It showed the team’s adaptability, the quick integration of returning stars like Yamal, and the behind-the-scenes dedication of both players and staff.

Flick’s management style, from handling injuries to reacting to refereeing delays, continues to define the season, while the squad’s unity and focus remain clear.