On an exceptional football night that reignited hope among Barcelona fans, spectators witnessed one of the most dramatic moments of the season, as the Catalan side overturned a 2-0 deficit against Levante to secure a stunning 3-2 victory in the final minutes.
However, what happened after the final whistle was even more dramatic than the match itself.
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Manager Hansi Flick, who has been under intense pressure recently, wasted no time in making decisive decisions following the match, sending clear messages to both players and supporters.
The surprise was not only his glowing praise for one of the team’s key players, but also his shocking decision to exclude a prominent star from the starting lineup until further notice.
The player who stole the spotlight and played a pivotal role in this resounding comeback was Pedri, the young midfielder. He delivered an outstanding performance, capped by the goal that reignited Barcelona’s hopes, before the team went on to clinch victory in the dying moments. After the match, Flick didn’t hesitate to say, “Pedri was the true leader on the pitch… his mind, his heart, and his determination,” emphasizing his crucial influence during the game.
He was deservedly named Man of the Match.
On the other hand, Flick made an equally bold move by announcing the indefinite exclusion of Marcus Rashford, who is considered one of the team’s biggest names. This came as a result of his clear dip in form and his negative impact on the team’s play.
The German coach stated firmly: “He won’t start again unless he proves he deserves to return.”
Flick’s decision reflects a significant shift in his coaching philosophy. He is now placing greater emphasis on mental readiness and tactical discipline rather than relying on reputation or past achievements.
As a result, the spotlight is now on players like Pedri, who is seen as the future of Barcelona’s midfield. In contrast, Rashford’s future appears uncertain unless he quickly regains his form.
These developments come at a critical point in the season, and with pressure mounting both domestically and in Europe, it is evident that Flick is unwilling to compromise on any detail. The message has clearly reached every player in the squad.
