Barcelona Overcomes Mourning to Focus on Benfica Clash

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick confirmed that his team has managed to stay focused on preparing for their Champions League Round of 16 second-leg match against Benfica, despite the passing of team doctor Carles Minarro last Saturday. This tragic event led to the postponement of Barcelona’s game against Osasuna.

Flick highlighted Minarro’s crucial role in the club’s success, emphasizing the deep sorrow among the players. “It is a huge loss. Carles was an exceptional person and an outstanding doctor. He was the perfect link between the club and the team. We will miss him greatly,” the German coach stated.

Despite the grief, Flick assured that his players remained fully concentrated on their goal. “It’s a very difficult situation, but we are trying to do the right thing. The team is extremely focused and is working to overcome this hardship. The best way to do that is by winning,” he added.

Barcelona is preparing to face Benfica after securing a 1-0 victory in Lisbon, despite playing most of the match with ten men following defender Pau Cubarsí’s red card.