Hansi Flick Unleashes Brutal Three-Word Attack That Rocks Real Madrid
Barcelona is set to meet Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinals, and before the opening match of this two-legged affair, Hansi Flick delivered a straightforward response to critics questioning his team's path through the tournament, taking a playful swipe at arch-rivals Real Madrid's recent exit.
Atlético Madrid represents the first top-flight Spanish team Barcelona will encounter in this year's competition, having previously overcome lower-division opponents Guadalajara, Racing Santander and Albacete en route to the semifinals. When questioned about Barça's seemingly easier draw, Flick offered a brief but witty reply.
"Ask Real Madrid," Flick responded, followed by a subtle nod as a knowing smile crossed his features.
The German manager references the shocking defeat Real Madrid suffered at the hands of second-division Albacete in the Copa del Rey's round of 16. Ironically, Barcelona subsequently eliminated Albacete in the quarterfinals, settling the score for their crosstown rivals.
Flick: Second Division Sides 'Deserve Respect'
Flick: Second Division Sides 'Deserve Respect'
Flick was subsequently informed that his sharp retort marked perhaps the first time he's taken aim at Real Madrid during his Barcelona coaching stint. However, the German tactician quickly clarified that his comment wasn't intended as a slight.
"Taking shots at Real Madrid doesn't benefit me," Flick explained. "It might help you [media], but not myself or my squad, so that's how it is. But I believe it was the appropriate response because we must also show respect to second and third division clubs in the [Copa del Rey]. And they [Albacete] performed exceptionally well, which is why I mention this.
"Because, I wonder, what's simpler? I'm not certain, since last season we faced Barbastro initially, then I believe it was Betis followed by Valencia. It was similar but perhaps much simpler because the outcomes were far more comfortable [one-sided] in those matches for us compared to Albacete or [Racing] Santander.
"For me, it's about showing respect to these teams [lower division clubs] as well. This is the [Copa del Rey] and they've also earned their place here and possess quality. They've demonstrated in every match that they're capable of defeating [La Liga] sides."
Barcelona eliminated Real Betis and Valencia by a combined 10–1 scoreline last season versus their 4–1 aggregate against Racing and Albacete this campaign. Nevertheless, they dominated in both instances, and the challenge now reaches its pinnacle in the semifinal stage.
Hansi Flick Praises Quality of Atlético Madrid
Hansi Flick Praises Quality of Atlético Madrid
Unfazed by external criticism regarding Barcelona's Copa del Rey opposition to this point, Flick remains fully conscious of the formidable obstacle that blocks Barça's path to the final.
"I'm impressed by what I observe from Atlético," Flick stated. "They're an outstanding team, with a defined approach, featuring numerous players who excel with possession and make it difficult for any opposition to defend against. For us, this will be a challenging encounter.
"I watched their cup fixture against Real Betis and it was remarkable. 'Cholo' [Diego Simeone] has done exceptional work at Atlético and that's evident to me."
Barcelona overcame Atlético Madrid in the 2024–25 Copa del Rey semifinals with a 5–4 aggregate victory in an exciting matchup.
However, Flick must navigate significant injury concerns for Thursday's opening leg. Barcelona cannot afford to fall behind during their trip to the Metropolitano, or their title defense could face a potentially decisive setback.