Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa Del Rey, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is preparing his team for a blockbuster Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid on April 26, 2025, at Estadio de La Cartuja. With the Hansi Flick Copa del Rey final referee drama taking center stage, Flick’s press conference remarks have drawn attention as he navigates officiating controversies, team selection challenges, and Barcelona’s treble ambitions. This Clásico showdown follows Barcelona’s 5-2 thrashing of Real Madrid in January’s Spanish Super Cup final, and Flick is determined to secure his second trophy of the season. In this article, we explore the referee controversy, Flick’s insights, and what’s at stake for both teams.
Hansi Flick Addresses Referee Drama Before Barcelona vs Real Madrid Copa del Rey Final
During Friday’s pre-match press conference in Seville, Hansi Flick faced questions about the escalating Hansi Flick Copa del Rey final referee drama. Real Madrid’s criticism of referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea and VAR assistant Pablo González Fuertes has intensified the build-up to the final. Flick, however, remained composed, saying, “I don’t know what to say about the referees, it’s a sport, it’s a game, the responsibility is to protect the players… You have to take care of the referees. They can’t be disrespected. Everyone, clubs, players, coaches.”
Flick’s respectful tone contrasts with Real Madrid’s actions, which include canceling their pre-match press conference, training session, and photo session in protest of the referee appointments. His focus on sportsmanship underscores his leadership as Barcelona aims to stay above the fray and concentrate on the match.
The Referee Controversy Unpacked
The Hansi Flick Copa del Rey final referee drama began when Real Madrid TV released a video questioning the impartiality of De Burgos Bengoetxea, citing Barcelona’s favorable record in his officiated matches. The referee responded emotionally in a press conference, breaking down as he described the personal impact, including bullying faced by his son. This prompted Real Madrid to escalate their grievances, labeling the referees’ comments “unacceptable” and suggesting a “conflict of interest.”
Reports indicate Real Madrid considered requesting a change in officials, though the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has not received a formal appeal. The club’s decision to skip pre-match activities has only fueled the narrative, making the referee drama a focal point of this Copa del Rey final. Flick’s call for respect stands out as a counterpoint to the escalating tension.
Team Selection Challenges for Barcelona
Injuries have forced Flick to rethink his lineup for the final. Star striker Robert Lewandowski and left-back Alejandro Balde are ruled out, with Flick confirming Ferran Torres will lead the attack. “Ferran has been working hard, and he’s ready to step up,” Flick noted. The left-back position remains uncertain, with youth product Gerard Martin a likely candidate.
Flick also praised 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, who could make his 99th appearance for Barcelona in the final. “Lamine has something special. At his age, it’s incredible,” he said. These selections highlight Flick’s trust in Barcelona’s depth and youth system, critical factors as they face a formidable Real Madrid side.
Barcelona’s Treble Dream
A victory in the Copa del Rey final would position Barcelona closer to a treble, a feat they last achieved in 2015. Leading La Liga by four points and still alive in the Champions League, Barcelona’s season under Flick has been stellar. When asked about the treble, Flick was pragmatic: “We have to focus on the now. Madrid have a fantastic team and they can hurt us… We have the opportunity to win three titles. That is our objective.”
The Hansi Flick Copa del Rey final referee drama has not distracted him from this goal, and a win against Real Madrid would solidify Barcelona’s dominance this season.
Real Madrid’s Struggles: Protests and Injuries
Real Madrid’s preparations have been chaotic. Beyond their referee protest, they face injury concerns, with Kylian Mbappé racing to recover from an ankle injury sustained in a Champions League loss to Arsenal. Mbappé is expected to play, but his fitness remains a question mark.
Meanwhile, 18-year-old Endrick has struggled, scoring just once in La Liga this season. In a recent 1-0 win over Getafe, he missed two clear chances, prompting a sharp critique from Carlo Ancelotti: “Theatre in football doesn’t exist. He has to learn to strike the ball properly.” Ancelotti rested key players like Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo against Getafe, signaling the priority of the Copa del Rey final.
The Clásico Context: A Rivalry Renewed
The Barcelona vs Real Madrid rivalry adds extra weight to this final. Barcelona’s 5-2 Super Cup win showcased their attacking prowess, but Real Madrid’s resilience in La Liga—trailing by just four points—suggests a tight contest. The Hansi Flick Copa del Rey final referee drama only heightens the stakes, as both teams vie for bragging rights and a trophy.
Conclusion
The Hansi Flick Copa del Rey final referee drama has turned a classic Clásico into a saga of controversy and anticipation. Hansi Flick’s steady leadership, focusing on respect and preparation, contrasts with Real Madrid’s disruptive approach. With injuries to manage and a treble on the line, Flick’s Barcelona enters the final as favorites, but Real Madrid’s talent and desperation could make it a close battle. Set for April 26, 2025, at Estadio de La Cartuja, this match promises drama both on and off the pitch.
🚨 Hansi Flick’s squad for the Cup final! #ElClásico #CopaBarça pic.twitter.com/NepFrHkj53
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 25, 2025
FAQs: Hansi Flick Copa del Rey Final Referee Drama
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What sparked the referee drama in the Copa del Rey final?
Real Madrid TV released a video criticizing referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea’s record, leading to an emotional response from the official and a protest from the club. -
How did Hansi Flick address the referee controversy?
Flick urged respect, saying, “You have to take care of the referees. They can’t be disrespected.” -
Who replaces Lewandowski for Barcelona in the final?
Ferran Torres will start in place of the injured Robert Lewandowski. -
Is Kylian Mbappé fit to play for Real Madrid?
Mbappé is recovering from an ankle injury and is expected to be available, though not fully confirmed. -
Why did Real Madrid cancel their pre-match activities?
They protested the referee appointments and the officials’ subsequent comments. -
Can Barcelona win the treble in 2025?
Yes, they lead La Liga, are in the Copa del Rey final, and remain in the Champions League, keeping the treble alive.
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