It was an emotional rollercoaster. On Sunday morning, Hansi Flick (60) received the news that his father had died, In the evening he led FC Barcelona to the Spanish league title against Real Madrid. Afterwards, the German coach was overwhelmed by the warmth of players and fans. “They are like a family to me.”
His cup went up into the air, pointing to the sky. His second consecutive national title with FC Barcelona as a tribute to his recently deceased father.
On Sunday morning, Hansi Flick had learned that his father had died. The German received that terrible news a few hours before the kick-off of the Clásico against Real Madrid, in which Barcelona could indeed become champions. Despite everything, Flick stood on the sidelines that evening – and Barça crowned themselves champions ninety minutes later.
However, the death of Flick’s father was felt all the time at Camp Nou. There was an impressive minute’s silence before kick-off and the Barcelona players fell into their coach’s arms when the two goals were scored. And after the game they all threw him in the air.
After the match, Flick, clearly impressed by all those emotions, took the floor and delivered a speech to a packed Camp Nou, which had just chanted his name. “It is a tough day, but also a day that I will never forget. I am proud of this team, which fights for 90 minutes or more every time. They are like a family.”
Flick repeated that last sentence at the press conference. When he was asked about how he experienced the day, he started an emotional speech.
I’ve had doubts, but they are like a family to me. That’s why I decided to tell them
“This morning (Sunday morning, ed.) my mother called me to tell me that my father had died. Afterwards I wondered if I should tell the players. I’ve had doubts, but they are like a family to me. That’s why I decided to tell them.”
“Their response was absolutely incredible,” Flick continued. “I am really happy and proud of everyone in this team. This club really feels like a family to me. I love working here and also living in Barcelona. The people here are very kind to me. I feel in the right place here and that is why I want to continue my work here.”
It is a feeling that Barcelona shares. It is expected that Flick’s contract extension, perhaps until 2028, will be finalized quickly.
