Hansi Flick highlights respect for Real Madrid and avoids the favorite role in the Copa del Rey Final

Hansi Flick, current head coach of FC Barcelona, once again showed his respectful and composed character just hours before the much-anticipated 2025 Copa del Rey Final against Real Madrid. Despite winning both Clásicos this season convincingly and leading Los Blancos by four points in LaLiga, the German coach refuses to accept the favorite tag.

"We have to enjoy this. We have a very young team, it’s a great experience, and we’re playing against one of the best clubs in the world. There are no favorites. Let the match begin," said Flick during the press conference at La Cartuja, where Barcelona held their final training session before the big game.

Full confidence in Barça: “We always have a game plan”

The German coach made it clear that his belief in the squad is unwavering:

“When I see how they train and push themselves, it gives me confidence. We played well against Mallorca, and came back to win against Celta. We always fight until the end, and tomorrow will be the same. We always have a clear plan based on the opponent, and that won’t change for the final,” Flick affirmed.

Maximum respect for Real Madrid and no euphoria over past wins

When asked about the previous victories over Real Madrid this season, Flick was blunt:

“That’s in the past. We focus on the present. They have a fantastic team and can hurt us, even if we do things right. I have a lot of respect for Real Madrid. We want to compete, give everything, and win the title. We’re not talking about euphoria or anything else.”

Who will start as Barcelona’s left-back?

Flick declined to confirm whether Gerard Martín will start at left-back in place of the injured Alejandro Balde:

“We’ll see tomorrow,” he responded. However, it seems likely that the former Cornellà player will feature, having been rested in the Mallorca match.

Referee controversy: Flick calls for respect and calm

Amid the growing referee controversy —with Real Madrid questioning the appointments of Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea and Pablo González Fuertes (VAR)— Flick sent a strong message:

“This is football, and it’s our responsibility to protect everyone: players, coaches, and referees. What’s happening isn’t right. On the pitch there are emotions, but after the match, we must move on. We can’t lose respect for referees. We all need to take care of them: clubs, players, and coaches.”

The Barcelona coach avoided fueling the debate around Real Madrid’s last-minute attempts to replace the referees and the ongoing pressure from Real Madrid TV, but reiterated his stance in favor of institutional respect and fairness in Spanish football.

🚨 Real Madrid Boycotts Copa del Rey Final Events Amid Referee Controversy with Barcelona

Real Madrid has decided not to attend the official events leading up to the Copa del Rey Final, where they are scheduled to face FC Barcelona. The decision has sparked major controversy in Spanish football and could have serious consequences both in the short and long term.

Real Madrid Risks Disqualification Under RFEF Rules

According to the Catalan outlet Sport, Article 77 of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) regulations states that if a team fails to appear for an official match or withdraws from the competition, it will be automatically disqualified.

In the case of a final, the team that was eliminated in the semifinals by the defaulting club would take its place. That means Real Sociedad could potentially replace Real Madrid if the latter refuses to play.

Moreover, Real Madrid would be barred from participating in the next edition of the tournament and could face a fine ranging from $3,000 to $13,000, in addition to possible compensation claims for damages to third parties.

Official Real Madrid Statement: Direct Criticism Toward Referees

In a fiery statement, Real Madrid denounced "clear animosity and hostility" from the match officials appointed for the 2025 Copa del Rey Final. The club opted out of all official activities: the press conference, training session at La Cartuja, and the formal dinner hosted by the RFEF in Seville.

Madrid described recent comments made by referees Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea (head official) and Pablo González Fuertes (VAR) as "unacceptable," particularly for allegedly targeting Realmadrid TV—a platform the club defends as an exercise of freedom of expression.

“Threatening Tone” and Concerns About Impartiality

"The referees' statements, made just 24 hours before the match, showed clear hostility and lacked the principles of fairness, objectivity, and impartiality," the club claimed.

Real Madrid called for RFEF and the Referees' Committee (CTA) to take urgent action to protect institutional integrity amid what they view as a conflict of interest.

Realmadrid TV at the Center of the Storm

Madrid stood by its in-house media channel, Realmadrid TV, rejecting accusations that it exerts pressure on officials. The club argued that the referees premeditatedly called out the channel, creating a biased environment ahead of one of the biggest matches of the season.

Official Boycott of Copa del Rey Pre-Match Events

As part of their protest, Carlo Ancelotti, his players, and club president Florentino Pérez skipped all scheduled pre-match engagements. Media outlets and accredited journalists were left waiting at La Cartuja, adding fuel to the growing media storm surrounding the final.

Referees Respond: Emotional Appeals and Tough Warnings

In the controversial pre-match press conference, De Burgos broke into tears while describing the toll media criticism has taken on referees and their families. "I had to explain to my son that his father makes mistakes but is an honest man," he said.

González Fuertes, meanwhile, called for an end to targeting referees, vowing that the CTA "will make history" by taking strong action against ongoing pressures.

What’s Next for Real Madrid and the Copa del Rey Final?

While Real Madrid reportedly won’t formally request a change in referees, they are hoping for action from the RFEF. So far, the Federation has not issued an official response, but pressure is mounting with the final fast approaching.

If Real Madrid refuses to play, they risk disqualification, a tournament ban, and financial penalties—while Real Sociedad awaits in the wings.