Flick rejects excuses after the Classic defeat at Camp Nou
Sports journalist Hansi Flick, after the 1‑2 defeat in the Clasico at the Spotify Camp Nou, rejected any excuse and emphasized that Kylian Mbappé's brace decided the match. The result left Barcelona with two defeats in five days.
Schedule and physical load
The previous week was especially heavy for the Catalan side. After traveling to Seville, the team returned to the hotel, rested for one night and the next day travelled to Paris, where PSG won 4‑2 at the Parc des Princes. Flick noted that “today we weren’t fresh, but that’s something we have to deal with.”
Despite the load of travel and international matches, the German coach shut the door on any justification based on the schedule. He insisted that he only mentions those issues when the team wins, to avoid it being seen as an excuse.
Tactical response and squad options
Flick described the first half as “bad”, but argued that from the 1‑1 onward his team controlled the game, although a lack of luck in the final metres cost the draw. He acknowledged Real Madrid’s off‑ball work under José Mourinho as superior to that of previous Clasicos.
Flick blames fatigue and lack of freshness after the Clasico
In the second half, the changes were prompted by Raphinha’s request to leave; Flick brought on Frenkie de Jong for his pace and ball‑carrying. Xavi Espart’s injury in the first half reduced defensive options, which led the coach to consider using the B team and La Masia.
Flick expects the swift recovery of Andreas Christensen, rates Eric García’s condition and closely monitors Jules Koundé’s development. “Now, we must focus on the games ahead,” he insisted.
The upcoming schedule includes the match against Alavés on October 31, the visit to Aston Villa in the Champions League on November 3 and the clash with Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano on November 8, the last before the international break. The work plan allows two days off for internationals, training on Monday, rest on Tuesday and three sessions to fine‑tune the game against Alavés.