Spanish giants FC Barcelona are urgently challenging manager Hansi Flick’s suspension to ensure his presence in Sunday’s El Clásico against rivals Real Madrid. The club formally appealed the German coach’s one-match ban issued by La Liga officials.
Referee Jesús Gil Manzano’s match report stated Flick received two rapid yellow cards during Barcelona’s previous fixture. The first caution allegedly came for “applauding a decision in protest,” followed by another for “a gesture of disapproval.”
Barcelona strongly contests this version of events. Club president Joan Laporta maintains video evidence proves referee error. “He made a mistake by waiting for Flick’s reaction,” Laporta stated, referencing available footage.
Should the appeal fail, Flick must observe the crucial match from the stands. Assistant manager Marcus Sorg would assume sideline duties at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Barcelona have indicated readiness to pursue the case through the Court of Arbitration for Sport.