Barcelona are set to be without Hansi Flick for two matches with the Spanish Federation rejecting the Catalonia club’s club appeal.
Flick was sent off during Barcelona’s 2-2 draw with Real Betis. As a result, the German manager will not be on the sidelines for Barcelona’s upcoming La Liga clashes against Leganes and Atletico Madrid, both scheduled to take place at Montjuic.
The former Bayern Munich manager seemed to understand that incidents like this can arise during matches, his stance reportedly shifted to disbelief upon learning about the two-match suspension.
Sources from the club reveal that Flick found the decision unprecedented in his extensive coaching career, making it hard for him to accept the ruling.
Flick’s suspension comes at a moment when Barcelona are in need of maximum 3 points to continue their push in La Liga.
Also, the timing of the suspension means Flick will not manage another La Liga game until mid-January 2025. Barcelona’s packed schedule includes several critical fixtures during this period.
The first weekend of January features the Copa del Rey round of 32, where Barcelona will face Barbastro. The following week, the team will travel to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup, which could involve both a semi-final and a final if they progress.
Additionally, the Copa del Rey round of 16 is slated for mid-January, provided Barcelona advances in the competition.
Despite the disappointment, Barcelona will be happy Flick’s suspension is limited to La Liga matches, allowing him to continue coaching in other tournaments. This means he can be on the sidelines for the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup fixtures without restriction.
Flick’s return to the league bench is expected for matchday 20, when Barcelona visits Getafe on 18 or 19 January.
