Barcelona Hit with UEFA Ban: Flick To Miss Opener
The sanction follows their conduct during last season's semi-final defeat to Inter Milan. Barcelona felt several key decisions, particularly in extra time, went against them and this prompted heated protests from Flick and Sorg both on the touchline and in the post-match press conference.
UEFA cited breaches of its disciplinary rules, specifically Article 11, which demands respect, fairness and sportsmanship from all participants. The governing body said the pair had 'broken the general principles of conduct' and 'violated the basic rules of decent conduct.'
Yamal and Raphinha were also sanctioned for 'failing to report immediately to the Doping Control Post' following the match. The good news for Barcelona is that both players escaped a match ban and were each fined €5,000 ($5,825).
The Spanish giants will be eager to move on from their heartbreaking defeat at the San Siro. Barcelona believed they had secured a place in the Champions League final after Raphinha scored the go-ahead goal in the 87th minute, only to concede a stoppage-time equaliser and then Davide Frattesi's winner in extra time.
The Catalans went on to claim a domestic treble, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. Still, they have made clear that their ultimate aim is to bring European glory back to Catalonia.
Flick's team will have their chance at redemption when the 2025–26 Champions League group stage kicks off in September, but they will have to do so without their manager on the touchline for the opening game. Tags: BarcelonaHansi Flicklamine yamalRaphinhaUEFA Champion
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