Barcelona is enjoying a positive run of results and is firmly on its way to securing the La Liga title.
The thrilling 4–3 victory over Celta Vigo sparked joy among players and fans alike, but it didn’t completely conceal some of the tension within the team. Amid the excitement and celebration, clear signs of internal strain emerged, triggered by three players who voiced their dissent over coach Hansi Flick’s decisions.
According to reports from the Spanish newspaper ‘‘El Nacional‘‘, after the great comeback at the Estadio Lluís Companys, Flick faced some difficult moments in the dressing room. Although his substitutions contributed to the victory, the way he handled the participation of certain players left a noticeable dissatisfaction among a trio in the squad: Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati, and Héctor Fort. All three showed signs of anger due to limited playing time and the coach’s declining confidence in them at a critical point in the season.
Ferran Torres… Dissatisfaction After a Goal
Ferran Torres started and scored the team’s first goal, once again affirming his attacking importance. However, he was the first to leave the pitch in the 59th minute when he was replaced by Lamine Yamal. He clearly protested the decision, kicking a ball near the bench and pushing away assistant coach Marcus Sorg when he tried to calm him. Torres felt he was performing at his best, and his substitution seemed unjustified given his strong showing.
Ansu Fati… The Perpetual Absentee
Ansu Fati did not take part in the match despite spending a long time warming up on the sidelines. Once Flick had used all his substitutions without giving him a chance, Fati’s frustration boiled over. He threw his warm-up shirt to the ground and kicked nearby equipment before storming angrily to the bench. This episode reflected ongoing discontent, amid a sharp decline in his standing within the team and the coach’s apparent lack of trust in him.
Héctor Fort… A Promise Unfulfilled
Héctor Fort, the young full-back expected to feature in the match, did not play a single minute. According to press reports, he had been assured he would be involved, but the need for a comeback forced Flick to alter his plans. At the final whistle, Fort refused to shake hands with the coach or celebrate, instead heading straight to the dressing room. Flick attempted to calm him with a few quick words, but the player gave no response.
Tense Situations and Uncertain Futures
These three incidents pose a challenge for Barcelona’s management at this crucial stage of the season. Ferran Torres’ situation appears to be the least complicated, especially in light of Robert Lewandowski’s injury, which may present him with further opportunities. As for Fati and Fort, their reactions could mark the end of their seasons—and possibly their tenures with the club, given the negative messages they’ve sent to the coach.