Barcelona Advance Despite Loss, but Internal Tensions Surface After Flick’s Criticism
Barcelona may have secured a place in the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in six years, but their 3-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the second leg has sparked internal tension and harsh criticism from head coach Hansi Flick.
Despite progressing thanks to a 4-0 first-leg win at Montjuïc, the poor performance in Germany marked Barcelona’s first defeat of 2025 — and Flick was far from satisfied.
According to El Nacional, Flick was particularly furious with defenders Ronald Araújo and Jules Koundé. Araújo was blamed for Dortmund’s third goal and is reportedly being considered for a summer exit, as Flick views him as incompatible with his system. Koundé also came under fire, with Flick reportedly pushing for a top-level right-back in the next transfer window.
Gerard Martin, another defender, faced stinging criticism. Flick is said to have joked that Martin was “Dortmund’s 12th player,” after a series of mistakes nearly cost Barça their qualification.
Even Lamine Yamal wasn’t spared. Despite being one of the team’s brightest young stars, Flick was frustrated with the winger’s recent dip in form and his visible frustration after being substituted. Flick warned Yamal that his attitude could jeopardize the team’s dreams during the season’s most crucial phase.
The drama didn’t stop there. Club president Joan Laporta reportedly entered the dressing room post-match to confront Flick about his handling of Robert Lewandowski. Laporta was unhappy that the Polish striker wasn’t subbed off earlier, accusing Flick of prioritizing Lewandowski’s Golden Boot ambitions over the team’s pressing strategy.
Laporta made it clear: no player is above the team, and with the season reaching its climax, every decision must serve the collective goal.
As Barça prepares for the semi-finals, tensions behind the scenes are rising — a reminder that even in victory, all is not always well.
