UEFA Strikes Hard: Hansi Flick Slapped with Champions League Ban as Rising Star Lamine Yamal Faces Sanctions

UEFA has imposed Champions League penalties on Hansi Flick, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha prior to the 2025–26 season.

The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) determined that Flick breached general conduct principles and fundamental standards of proper behavior during his conduct in Barcelona's semifinal second leg against Inter Milan last campaign.

Flick was given a one-game suspension and will therefore be absent from the Catalans' opening league phase fixture in their 2025–26 Champions League run. Assistant coach Marcus Sorg received an identical penalty.

The German manager and his coaching staff displayed clear frustration on the sideline regarding multiple calls made by referee Szymon Marciniak during the Catalans' 4–3 loss. Flick subsequently approached the official and publicly questioned the referee's judgment during his post-game media session.

Yamal and Raphinha were also penalized for "not promptly appearing at the Doping Control Station" after the contest. However, positive news for Barcelona is that both players avoided suspension and must only pay €5,000 ($5,825) fines each.

The Spanish powerhouse will be keen to put their devastating San Siro loss behind them. Barcelona believed they had secured their Champions League final spot when Raphinha netted the decisive goal in the 87th minute, but they subsequently allowed Francesco Acerbi's injury-time equalizer and Davide Frattesi's extra-time winner.

The Catalans proceeded to capture a domestic treble, securing La Liga, the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup titles. Nevertheless, they have openly acknowledged that their primary objective remains bringing European success back to Catalonia.

Flick's squad will get their opportunity for redemption when the 2025–26 Champions League league phase begins in September, though they must do so with their manager absent from the sideline for their inaugural match.