Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick addressed the media ahead of the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg at the Metropolitano against Atlético Madrid. The Blaugrana travel to Madrid as the reigning champions, but face a side coached by Diego Simeone known for its intensity and knockout match organisation.
Flick confirmed Marcus Rashford will not be part of the squad for the first leg after sustaining a knock that leaves him unready to play, dealing a setback to Barcelona’s attacking options. The coach acknowledged the loss but said the team will adapt with the personnel available.
The manager also indicated Raphinha is unlikely to feature due to muscular concerns; the club prefers to manage his recovery carefully to avoid aggravating the issue. As a result, both Rashford and Raphinha will miss this match. Flick further mentioned that other key players such as Pedri, Gavi and Andreas are important to the squad and are being closely monitored.
Flick stressed the tie must be considered over two legs — 180 minutes — and that the priority is to handle both games rather than focus solely on the first match in Madrid. He described last season as tough and underlined the team’s goal to progress to the final by preparing for the full scope of the duel.
When asked about Barcelona’s route to the semi-finals, Flick pointed to Real Madrid’s surprising loss to Albacete and used that example to emphasise respect for lower-division opponents. He argued that clubs from the Second and Third Division have earned their places with strong cup runs and can beat top-flight teams, so underrating them would be a mistake.
Regarding Ronald Araujo, Flick noted the club has supported the defender after he spoke openly about personal struggles. The coach said that revealing such difficulties is a sign of strength and that managing players’ mental condition is an important responsibility for the staff, especially after Araujo described being affected for about a year and a half.
On Jules Koundé, Flick praised the defender’s fighting mentality, pointing out that even on off days he continues to compete and contribute. That determination is valuable in demanding matches like those against Atlético, who play with a clear philosophy.
The coach reserved special praise for teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, highlighting his ability to decide games through dribbling and one-on-one actions, his constant desire to improve at training, and the significant potential he can develop in the coming years.
Flick reiterated that his full concentration is on the game against Atlético — the club, the team and the supporters — and that distractions about other matters are not part of his preparation.
