Hansi Flick Explodes: "Worst Performance Ever" as Barcelona Crumble Against Real Sociedad
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick declared he has never experienced such bad luck as he expressed his disappointment following his team's loss to Real Sociedad on Sunday.
Although finishing the match with 72% ball control and registering 25 shots compared to their rivals' seven, Barcelona surprisingly suffered a 2–1 loss that reduces their lead over Real Madrid in the La Liga standings to just one point.
Flick's team had three goals disallowed for offside in the opening half and hit the woodwork an astonishing four times, leaving the Barcelona manager bewildered after the match concluded.
"We generated numerous opportunities; the final score doesn't represent what we witnessed," Flick commented. "There are occasions when you put in tremendous effort and ultimately face misfortune.
"I appreciate what I observed. In certain moments, we need to improve our defensive play. It's an ongoing development, but I value what I witnessed.
"I've communicated this to the players, we haven't had fortune on our side and now we must concentrate on the upcoming fixture. I believe it's the game with the most unfortunate luck in my coaching career.
"We must maintain this approach. I'm satisfied with our performance in recent weeks, and we shouldn't expend energy on other matters, such as the officiating."
Frenkie de Jong Criticizes Referee's Perceived Arrogance
Frenkie de Jong Criticizes Referee's Perceived Arrogance
Flick was hesitant to criticize referee Jesús Gil Manzano directly, though it was clear he was dissatisfied with the official's decisions.
Team captain Frenkie de Jong, however, adopted a more direct stance as he condemned the referee for declining to communicate with players during the match.
"What I want to emphasize is that you cannot even communicate with the referee," De Jong expressed angrily. "I'm the team captain and I cannot comprehend it. He stares at me with an expression like, 'I'm superior to you.' It's maddening. He cannot conduct himself in that manner.
"During the final moments of the game, in added time, I continuously reminded him to monitor the clock. They consume a full minute for goal kicks ... it's typical behavior for them. And he didn't even add 10 additional seconds. It's absurd. I mentioned this to him and he issued me a yellow card."
Flick was questioned about De Jong's remarks and determined he was prepared to share his thoughts.
"I wasn't on the field, but indeed, I support what Frenkie expressed," he stated. "I don't want to waste energy on this individual; everyone witnessed his officiating.
"I'm not upset with the refereeing, because we all understand the situation. I encountered similar observations before the match. There are several excellent referees in La Liga, but we all know the reality. Frenkie is correct, he remains composed, he's the captain and he wishes to communicate with the referee but cannot. Alright, we must accept it, that's the current state."