Hansi Flick addressed the passing of club doctor Carles Miñarro Garcia for the first time on Monday afternoon. A minute of silence was observed at the start of the press conference ahead of the Champions League match against Benfica.
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Flick attended the press conference alone, without any of his players, in a clear effort to protect them from the emotional burden they have been carrying since last Saturday.
The tragic passing of youth player Marc Miñarro, who suffered a fatal heart attack just before the La Liga match against Osasuna, has left a deep impact on the squad. The 19-year-old had been a promising talent within Barcelona’s academy, and his sudden loss has shaken not only his teammates but also the entire club.
The team observed a minute of silence before Flick addressed the media. His words reflected both the sorrow within the squad and their determination to push forward. He acknowledged the pain of losing Miñarro but insisted that the best way to honor his memory was to keep playing with passion and commitment. "We will miss him, but sometimes life goes this way. We want to play for him. It's important to win for him. We are ready, that is our duty." Flick emphasized that the players are channeling their grief into motivation, using Miñarro’s memory as an additional source of strength for the crucial fixtures ahead.
Despite the emotional weight, Barcelona must now shift their focus to their upcoming challenge in the Champions League. The team faces Napoli in the second leg of the Round of 16 on Tuesday, March 12, at 21:00, in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw in Naples, leaving everything to play for at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. Flick and his players know that there is no room for complacency. Napoli, despite a difficult domestic campaign, remains a dangerous opponent, and Barcelona must be at their best to secure a place in the quarter-finals. The German coach highlighted the importance of focus and intensity, insisting that the team must approach the match with the right mentality. "We cannot take anything for granted. Napoli is a strong side with quality players who can punish any mistake. We have to be at our best from the first minute to the last."
After addressing the emotional aspect, Flick transitioned albeit with a heavy heart to the sporting priorities at hand. He pointed out that the players are showing great focus in training, emphasizing that the team is fully aware of the challenge ahead. "I see that the team is very focused. In this morning's meeting, we showed both the good and the bad from the first leg. No one on our side thinks the job is done. We want to have the right attitude." These words underline the coach’s belief that his players will rise to the occasion despite the adversity they are facing. The team has been working hard in training, analyzing Napoli’s weaknesses while reinforcing their own strategies. Barcelona will likely look to dominate possession, dictate the tempo, and take advantage of any defensive vulnerabilities in the Italian side.
One key factor for Barcelona’s hopes will be the form of Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker had experienced some physical discomfort over the weekend, raising concerns about his availability. However, Flick reassured fans and the media that the veteran forward is fully fit and ready to lead the attack. "He is fit and in top shape," Flick confirmed. Lewandowski’s presence will be crucial as Barcelona aims to break down Napoli’s defense. With his experience, goal-scoring ability, and leadership, he remains a central figure in Flick’s tactical plans. Alongside young stars like Lamine Yamal and Pedri, Barcelona will be looking to put in a commanding performance in front of their home supporters.
A victory against Napoli would mark an important step forward for Barcelona in their European campaign, especially as they seek to re-establish themselves among the continent’s elite after recent struggles in the Champions League. The club’s last deep run in the competition feels like a distant memory, and Flick is determined to change that. Beyond the immediate challenge, Barcelona still faces a demanding schedule in both La Liga and Europe. Managing the physical and emotional toll on the squad will be key as they navigate the final stretch of the season. Flick will need to rotate his players wisely while maintaining the competitive edge necessary to fight for silverware.
For now, however, all eyes are on Tuesday night’s showdown. Barcelona will step onto the pitch carrying not only the hopes of their fans but also the memory of Marc Miñarro, turning their grief into strength as they battle for a place in the quarter-finals.
Updated: 03:47, 10 Mar 2025
