Hansi Flick said he would “never forget” the day FC Barcelona secured the La Liga title after learning about his father’s death hours before a 2-0 win over Real Madrid CF.
Barcelona sealed a second straight league title with the Clasico victory. Flick later revealed that his mother informed him of his father’s death on the morning of the match.
“I’m proud. I’ll never forget this day. Never. I’m happy about this and the atmosphere in this stadium is unbelievable,” Flick told fans.
The German coach said he considered keeping the news private before deciding to speak with his players.
“This morning, my mum called me and she said that my father passed away,” Flick said.
“And so I thought about whether I should hide it, or should I speak with my team? Because for me it’s like a family.”
“And I said, okay, I want to get the information to the players. And what they did then was unbelievable. I will never forget this moment.”
Flick praised both the squad and his backroom staff after the title-clinching win. Barcelona’s players also threw him into the air during the post-match celebrations.
“I’m really happy and really proud about everyone. Every player in the team. My staff around as well, and the club,” he said.
Flick added that Barcelona still want to chase the 100-point mark in their final three league matches. He also identified the UEFA Champions League as the club’s main target next season after an 11-year wait for the trophy.
“I know everyone here and also in Barcelona wants to win the Champions League,” Flick said.
“We try next season again, and hopefully we can achieve this goal.”
Spanish media have also reported that Flick could extend his current contract, which runs until 2027, by another year.
