FC Barcelona faced Atlético de Madrid this past weekend in a crucial clash for the LaLiga leadership. Both teams jumped onto the field with an intensity that foreshadowed a very contested match. Hansi Flick opted to surprise by including Gavi in the starting line-up, but the absence of Lamine Yamal once again took its toll.
Throughout the 90 minutes, Barça dominated much of the match, showing authority on the field that made it seem like victory was close. However, it was Atlético de Madrid which took the three points in the end, capitalizing on two key mistakes by the Catalonians. Casadó failed in the play that led to the first goal. In the second one, the weak collective pressure allowed the rojiblancos to break out easily and seal the match.
However, what has drawn the most attention wasn't the result, but what happened after the final whistle. Gavi was really angry in the culé locker room with what happened on the field. Specifically, he pointed to one of his teammates.
Trouble at Barça! Gavi is Clear about It
Gavi was a starter and had a good performance, but he couldn't hide his frustration after the defeat and became the main protagonist of what happened in the locker room. According to sources close to the team, Gavi was really angry with Lewandowski for not pressing Atlético's center-backs. This flaw must have allowed them to break out easily and organize their play. Barça's number 6 didn't hold back his dissatisfaction and told Lewandowski during the match, reproaching him for his lack of pressure.
Flick's plan requires all pieces to work in perfect sync and Gavi is aware of this. That's why, after seeing Lewandowski not pressing correctly on several occasions, he showed his frustration. He faced number 9 directly during the match and also talked to Pedri about the matter once it was over.
It's clear that the defeat against Atlético has been painful not only because of the result but because of the way it happened. Losing in the last minute is never pleasant, especially after dominating the game for 90 minutes. Gavi, who experiences it with maximum intensity, couldn't hide his anger with Lewandowski.
Now, Hansi Flick will have to take action to ensure the group maintain unity, but the fire in the locker room may have already started. Everything will depend on how the players, coaches, and management handle this delicate moment in the season.