Barcelona vs Real Madrid, Copa del Rey Final – Hansi Flick Speaks About Referee Drama, His Players, and More

Barcelona Boss Addresses His Players, Referee Controversy, and Treble Hopes Before Copa del Rey Final.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is eyeing a second trophy in his debut season. His side is preparing for Saturday’s Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid at Estadio de La Cartuja. They’ve already defeated Los Blancos 5-2 in January’s Spanish Super Cup final. Flick now aims to replicate that success.

If they succeed, then they will move one step closer to an ambitious treble this season. At Friday’s pre-match press conference in Seville, the German tactician addressed several key topics. This included team selection, the recent refereeing controversy, and more.

🚨 Hansi Flick’s squad for the Cup final! #ElClásico #CopaBarça pic.twitter.com/NepFrHkj53
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 25, 2025

Support for Referees Amid Madrid Criticism

The final’s officiating has been under scrutiny following criticism from Real Madrid TV. They released a video directed at main referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea and VAR assistant Pablo González Fuertes. After Bengoetxea broke down speaking about the clip during a press conference, Real Madrid expressed their concern.

As per reports, Madrid are unhappy with the appointment and may seek a change. Even before that, they’ve already cancelled all of their pre-match activities including training session, press conference, and photo session. Flick, however, remained respectful:

“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.”

Also Read: Ter Stegen Injury Update – Could The Barcelona Goalkeeper Start in the Copa Del Rey Finals vs Real Madrid?

His Players and Treble Dreams

Robert Lewandowski has been sidelined due to injury which he sustained during their match against Celta Vigo in La Liga. Flick confirmed that Ferran Torres will start up front. With Ferran’s role settled, Flick is yet to confirm who will feature at the left-back position. He has kept the possibility of Gerard Martin starting the match hanging as he said:

“Gerard Martin? We’ll see tomorrow.”

About Ferran: “He has already shown how well he plays there, against Betis, against Valencia in the Copa. It’s a good position for him.”

Also Read: Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Two Crucial Real Madrid Players Injured Ahead of Copa del Rey Final

Alejandro Balde has been ruled out. Meanwhile, youngster Lamine Yamal is set to make his 99th appearance for the club at just 17. Speaking about him, Flick teased:

“Lamine is an incredible player at his age. He has something special for you, you’ll see.”

Despite having beaten Real Madrid twice this season, Flick warned against complacency. He also acknowledged the club’s treble ambitions:

“It’s the past. We have to focus on the now. Madrid have a fantastic team and they can hurt us… We started a journey… We have the opportunity to win three titles. And that is our objective.”

Barcelona

Barcelona vs Real Madrid

Copa del Rey

El Clasico

Hansi Flick

Real Madrid

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.