Flick Opens Up About Personal Transformation at Camp Nou
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has offered a candid reflection on his emotional evolution since joining the Catalan giants, admitting the club has fundamentally changed his approach to coaching.
Speaking ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League encounter with Olympiakos, the 60-year-old German tactician acknowledged a dramatic shift in his emotional expression compared to his previous tenure at Bayern Munich.
The revelation comes following Flick’s controversial dismissal during Barcelona’s thrilling 2-1 victory over Girona, where Ronald Araujo’s stoppage-time winner sparked passionate scenes that resulted in the manager receiving a red card for protesting refereeing decisions.
Reflecting on his transformation, Flick contrasted his current demeanor with his Bayern days, particularly recalling the famous 8-2 Champions League demolition of Barcelona when he remained stoic despite the historic scoreline.
“Now I have more emotions; this club has completely changed me,” Flick admitted during Monday’s press conference. “What I can say is that I love this club, I love Barcelona, I love the people here. It’s incredible, and I give my all for this organization.”
The German coach expressed discomfort with his touchline outbursts, particularly considering his grandchildren’s perspective, suggesting potential behavioral adjustments moving forward.
Barcelona face mounting challenges with key attackers Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Ferran Torres, and Dani Olmo sidelined through injury. Flick is expected to deploy an improvised attacking trio featuring Fermin Lopez, Marcus Rashford, and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal against the Greek champions.
Currently positioned 16th in the Champions League standings with three points, Barcelona must navigate this fixture strategically while Olympiakos languish in 29th place with a single point.
The Catalan club has appealed Flick’s red card, hoping to ensure his presence for Sunday’s crucial El Clasico showdown against league leaders Real Madrid, though the manager acknowledges limited optimism regarding the appeal’s success.
