Last Saturday, the FC Barcelona squad suffered the loss of Doctor Carles Miñarro just hours before facing Osasuna, and, understandably, the match was postponed. However, with no time to recover, Barcelona is already focused on the second leg of the Champions League match against Benfica, and the goal is clear: to dedicate the qualification to Doctor Miñarro.

Flick acknowledges the squad is affected

Exceptionally, FC Barcelona asked for authorization from UEFA for no player to accompany Hansi Flick at the pre-match press conference against Benfica, where he shared his thoughts on the team’s emotional state days after hearing about the passing of Doctor Carles Miñarro, who had a very close relationship with the entire squad.

"I believe the team is managing the situation well, and we’re focused on this match. The president (Joan Laporta) and I have spoken with the locker room. It’s a huge loss, Carles was a great person and a great doctor," Hansi Flick said. Without a doubt, it’s a very delicate moment. But Flick "sees the team very focused" because "no one thinks the tie is decided."

Flick confirms Lewandowski’s presence

Meanwhile, Benfica was able to play their match against Nacional and ended up winning big to keep up the pressure on Sporting CP in the title race… even though Di María was still unavailable. However, it looks like Benfica will have the Argentine winger available again to face Barcelona and attempt a comeback.

"Di María is a fantastic player and, despite his age, is very dangerous," admitted Hansi Flick, who also acknowledged that "Lewandowski will be able to play" against Benfica. The result is fair, and Barcelona cannot afford any mistakes. But Flick also pointed out that "they’re in a good moment, the players are doing very well and are confident."