Rabat – Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick is mourning the sudden passing of his father, who died early Sunday morning just hours ahead of tonight’s Clásico against Real Madrid at the Camp Nou.
After informing the board and his players of the news this morning, the 61-year-old coach has decided to remain with the squad and will take his place on the bench for tonight’s game.
“FC Barcelona and the entire Barça family wish to express our deepest condolences to Hansi Flick on the passing of his father. We share his grief and stand with him and his family during this difficult time,” the Catalan club announced in a statement.
Real Madrid also expressed its condolences to Flick today, sharing a message of support across all its social and digital channels.
“Real Madrid CF, its president, and its Board of Directors deeply regret the passing of the father of Hansi Flick, FC Barcelona coach. Real Madrid wishes to express its condolences and affection to his family and all his loved ones. May he rest in peace,” the club stated.
Barcelona hold an 11-point lead with four games left, the club can clinch their 29th La Liga title tonight. A win or a draw against Real Madrid would be enough to secure the trophy and end the title race.
The Barcelona squad are expected to wear black armbands tonight as a tribute to Flick’s father, signaling the team’s solidarity with their manager during this difficult time.
A potential minute of silence before kickoff is set to transform the usual intensity of El Clásico into a moment of respect, lending a somber atmosphere to the historic rivalry.
Despite the grief of losing his father, Flick’s decision to lead the team tonight highlights the importance of the occasion as he stands just 90 minutes away from potentially securing another league trophy and further cementing his legacy at the club.
