FC Barcelona Crush Dortmund, but Ferran Torres Left Frustrated by Bench Role
FC Barcelona delivered a commanding 4-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, putting themselves in a dominant position to reach the semi-finals. The Catalan side showed exceptional form, especially in the first half, controlling the game with impressive cohesion, both offensively and defensively.
However, behind the scenes, not everyone was celebrating. According to El Nacional, Ferran Torres was visibly upset after being left out of the starting lineup. Despite being in arguably the best form of his career in 2025, Torres found himself on the bench, watching as others were preferred in the starting XI.
The Spanish forward had recently impressed in the Copa del Rey, particularly with a hat-trick against former club Valencia and a crucial goal against Atlético Madrid that propelled Barça into the final. In La Liga, he also featured from the start, though played out of position on the left wing — a role he’s long been uncomfortable with.
Torres was hoping that head coach Hansi Flick would reward his recent form, especially given Raphinha’s ongoing fitness struggles and Robert Lewandowski’s recent absence against Real Betis. But Flick stuck with his established lineup, leaving Torres on the bench once more.
Though he was subbed on in the 81st minute, the brief appearance offered little chance to make an impact. The winger was seen leaving the match with clear signs of frustration.
So, while Barcelona’s triumph over Dortmund has them nearly assured of a place in the semifinals, Ferran Torres’ situation adds a layer of tension to the squad’s otherwise celebratory mood.
