Barcelona have suffered a significant setback ahead of Sunday’s El Clàsico after the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) officially rejected their appeal against Hansi Flick’s red card. The ruling means the German tactician will serve a one match suspension, leaving assistant coach Marcus Sorg to the Santiago Bernabéu.
Flick’s dismissal came during Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Girona, when he was shown two yellow cards in quick succession by referee Jesús Gil Manzano first for sarcastically applauding added time, and then for protesting moments later. Barcelona argued that the referee’s report “did not correspond to what happened,” but the RFEF’s Disciplinary Committee stated that “no evidence whatsoever” contradicted the official’s account.
Club president Joan Laporta condemned the decision, calling the referee’s behavior “excessive” and accusing La Liga officials of bias in favor of Real Madrid. “This man has always sent off all the players who stand out,” Laporta said. “It always happens before an important match.” Sporting director Deco echoed Laporta’s frustration, suggesting that referees tend to be harsher on Barcelona, though he maintained that the club would not use Flick’s absence as excuse.
The timing could not be worse for the Catalans. Barcelona trails Real Madrid by just two points at the top of the La Liga table, and Flick’s leadership has been crucial since his arrival. Under his command, barça has shown improved tactical balance and attacking intensity. Despite the suspension, the club’s legal department is expected to file a final appeal, though precedent suggests little chance of success.
There is, however, a glimmer of good news for the Blaugrana. Brazilian winger Raphinha has returned to training after five matches out with a hamstring injury and is expected to feature in some capacity at the Bernabéu. His comeback would be a major boost for a side looking to build on their 6-1 Champions League win over Olympiacos.
Meanwhile, off the pitch, transfer speculation continues to swirl. Reports from Spain suggest that Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez could be edging closer to a move to Barcelona next summer. The Argentine forward, who joined Atleti from Manchester City for €75 million, is reportedly growing frustrated with his team’s lack of competitiveness despite his impressive individual record of 36 goals and 11 assists in 68 appearances.
Barcelona views Álvarez as a long term successor to Robert Lewandowski, but his price tag potentially between €150m and €200m poses a major obstacle given the club’s ongoing financial constraints. Sources claim Barça could offer up to €100m plus player exchanges to make the deal possible.
As the countdown to El Clásico continues, all eyes will be on how Barcelona responds to adversity both on the touch line and in the transfer market. Whether Flick’s absence fuels their determination or weakens their resolve could define their title hopes for the season.
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