Barcelona coach Flick caught making ‘grass’ complaint to UEFA ahead of Atlético Madrid UCL game

Hansi Flick made an unexpected move during Barcelona’s final training session ahead of their Champions League quarterfinal second leg, approaching a UEFA match delegate to raise concerns about the height of the grass at the Metropolitano just 24 hours before facing Atlético Madrid.

The moment, captured on video, sparked intrigue despite the club later clarifying there had been no formal complaint. Barcelona acknowledged that Flick did make the observation, which UEFA noted in line with its standard protocols, but stressed it was nothing more than an informal remark. Atlético, for their part, firmly denied any issues with the playing surface.

According to sources within the club, the pitch is in its usual condition – if not better than a month ago, when Barcelona last traveled to Madrid for the Copa del Rey semifinal first leg. On that occasion, a strange bounce early in the game contributed to Atlético’s emphatic 4–0 win. Warmer temperatures in recent weeks have reportedly helped maintain optimal conditions. There is no official dispute, only a passing comment from Flick that nonetheless adds a layer of tension to an already finely balanced encounter.

This will be Barcelona’s third visit to the Metropolitano this season. They suffered that heavy Copa defeat in the first meeting but responded with a 2–1 win in the second, sealed by a late Robert Lewandowski goal. Last season, they emerged victorious in both visits – 4–2 in LaLiga and 1–0 in the cup. Flick is acutely aware that the tie could hinge on the smallest of details, as already seen in the first leg at Camp Nou.

In that game, key decisions went Atlético’s way, including Pau Cubarsí’s red card and a potential handball by Marc Pubill that went unpunished. Flick appears determined to control every possible variable ahead of the return leg. From tactical adjustments to subtle psychological maneuvers, even a comment about the grass can be part of the wider battle beyond the pitch. With Barcelona facing a significant deficit, every edge – however marginal – could prove decisive.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.