Hansi Flick has arrived at Barça as a coach, but his role in the last few hours has been more like that of a firefighter. The German coach made a decision that has surprised both the locker room and the Barça leadership: he canceled all the speeches planned during the celebration of Barça's three titles.
chants prepared against Real Madrid's media environment
Why? Because he knew what was being prepared. Some players, still with hot blood, had prepared messages and chants directed at Real Madrid.
Also at certain media outlets in the capital that, throughout the season, have belittled Barça with the "kids' team" label.
Flick had already eliminated any hint of celebration after winning in Cornellà out of respect and focus. Then he acted firmly again before the controversy erupted.
He didn't want a sports party to turn into a media battlefield. He achieved his goal.
the verbal war is frozen... for now
On the parade, some chants with veiled messages were heard, but what happened at Montjuïc could have gone much further. Flick knew it and decided to cut it short. There will be no viral videos, no manipulated clips, no fodder for the Madrid press.
The German coach believes that the best response is the one given on the field. There, Barça has spoken loud and clear with three titles in a historic season. Flick wants his Barça to speak with soccer, not with a microphone in hand.
The club values his composure and his ability to avoid an unnecessary war on the eve of another clásico. Flick has shown character... and wisdom.
But what is undeniable is that the Barcelona squad has suffered constant attacks and disdain from the capital of Spain. It is understandable that the players wanted to let off steam with three titles against those who had doubted their quality.
Flick convinced them that it wasn't worth it. Not even winning ten consecutive Champions would change the opinion of the biased journalism that prevails in the capital. They gained nothing by declaring war head-on.
Thanks to Flick, Barça has one less front to attend to.