Hansi Flick calls out LaLiga referees over Yamal, Vinicius Jr treatment

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has voiced out his thoughts about the issue of players in LaLiga not being “protected” by referees, giving license to defenders to put in rough challenges.

La Liga referees in the past few weeks have faced huge criticism from clubs in the league. Clubs like Real Madrid, Alaves, Real Sociedad, Rayo Vallecano, and Leganes all publishing official statements to express their dissatisfaction with the quality of officiating.

While Hansi Flick had previously supported the referees, advocating for their protection, he has now voiced his protest in favor of safeguarding the players, urging referees to take action against reckless challenges from defenders.

Flick was direct in his call to all La Liga referees, urging them to ensure the protection of stars like Lamine Yamal and Vinicius Jr. by not allowing rough tackles from defenders to go unpunished.

Lamine Yamal right winger of Barcelona and Spain lies injured on the pitch during the LaLiga match between UD Las Palmas and FC Barcelona. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

“We can’t say that Lamine, Vini, or Raphinha have to be specially protected, but rather all the players,” Flick explained (h/t AS).

“If it’s a tough tackle, a yellow card should be given; otherwise, it will keep happening again and again. They (the referees) need to do it, and that’s it. The most sensible thing is what I’m saying. As a defender, you have to know that next time you can’t go in hard. If I get a yellow card, the next time I’ll be more relaxed.

“Everyone loves it when a player is at their best in a one-versus-one. This is what makes Barcelona and Madrid special. These players are able to play against one or two players at the same time. This needs to be protected.”

Barcelona young winger Yamal faced some rough challenge in the clubs victory over Las Palmas and Flick will be eager to see an improvement from referees in their next game.

The Catalonia side are currently sitting top of the LaLiga table and have a relatively straightforward path in the Champions League, where they are paired with Benfica in the Round of 16.