Hansi Flick: Referees Are Only Sensitive to Me and Barcelona

Barcelona's head coach, Hansi Flick, will be absent from the touchline during the upcoming match against Leganes at Montjuïc, serving the first of a two-match suspension. Following a morale-boosting victory against Borussia Dortmund, Flick is optimistic about returning to winning ways in La Liga.

Addressing the media ahead of the Leganes fixture, Flick discussed his suspension and the importance of maintaining focus:

On the team's approach against Leganes: "I've told the team that everything depends on us. We must play with 100% concentration because they will fight until the last moment. I want the team to stay focused and respect the opponent."

Regarding player recovery: "We need to be patient for everyone to recover fully. Ansu Fati is improving daily. The medical team is doing an excellent job."

On his two-match suspension: "My reaction wasn't ideal, that's clear. I tried to communicate with Frenkie. There was also an incident between Inigo and Vitor Roque. I don't want to complain about referees, but I believe my reaction wasn't overly exaggerated, considering it was me. Perhaps I should have been more restrained. I hope referees make similar decisions for other teams and not just be more sensitive towards me and Barcelona."

About Markus Sorg, who will be on the bench: "He communicates well with everyone and is an experienced coach. He works very well in training sessions, and I have 100% confidence in him."

On the consistency of refereeing standards: "This is the last time I'll speak about referees. I don't like discussing it. For you, it might be interesting, but everything has been said."

Potential lineup changes: "Tomorrow we play against Leganes; we're not thinking about Atletico yet. We need to decide on players who have played a lot. Having fresh players on the field is very good. We might make some changes."

On Frenkie de Jong's position: "I've told Frenkie that I don't think about individuals; I think about the team. It's evident on the field that players are comfortable. This isn't about protecting them but about the team's best interest. We must support them to perform at their best."

Regarding Ronald Araujo's availability: "I plan to give him some minutes tomorrow. I don't know how many, but I don't think he'll start. However, I'll decide on the starting lineup. Maybe he'll start, but if not, he'll come on in the second half."

On Raphinha's potential rest: "I haven't spoken to him yet. Today is his birthday, and he looks very fresh. I'll talk to him tomorrow; I haven't made a decision yet."