First came the loss of his father, then the La Liga title with Barcelona — Hansi Flick captured the hearts of fans after an unforgettable, gut-wrenching day.
Hansi Flick looked up at the sky with teary eyes as fireworks burst over Camp Nou, igniting the championship celebration. The death of his father earlier that morning, followed by the emotional title-clinching victory against Real Madrid in El Clásico, left the 61-year-old coach overwhelmed. “It was a tough day. A day I will never forget,” Flick said moments later, speaking into the stadium microphone to the roaring crowd.
Earlier, Barça stars led by Lamine Yamal had lifted their coach onto their shoulders. But during the trophy presentation, Flick stood more like a quiet observer, repeatedly embraced by players, staff, and officials offering heartfelt condolences. Eventually, the entire club wept and celebrated with him. “Barcelona is like a family to me,” the former Germany national team coach admitted.
Flick, who wore a black sweater on the bench during the 2-0 win over Real Madrid, revealed the full story at the post-match press conference. “This morning, my mother called and told me my father had passed away. I thought: should I keep this to myself, or share it?” he said. Shortly after, he informed his players first (“I’ll never forget how they reacted”) and then the public. He decided to stay with the team in Barcelona.
Flick has ushered in “a new era” at FC Barcelona — recognition even coming from Madrid. Players and fans showed immense support for his decision. “We often say football gives us a big family. For me, Flick is like a father,” said Raphinha. Teammate Pedri added that the team “won the title for him.” Center-back Pau Cubarsi echoed that the championship is “for the entire Flick family.”
After two years in Barcelona, this is already his fifth trophy, and a contract extension until 2028 is close to being signed. “The German coach will never forget the warmth he has received since his first day in Barcelona,” wrote *El Mundo Deportivo*. Madrid-based *Marca* also tipped its hat: “Flick marks a new era thanks to his successes, his demeanor, and his personality. He fully identifies with the club.”
Flick fought back tears and now aims for a historic milestone with Barcelona. Before the 264th Clásico, a minute of silence accompanied by classical music was held, and both teams wore black armbands. Flick struggled to hold back tears as fans chanted his name. He later said he had “never” felt such affection at Camp Nou as he did that day.
And that’s exactly why Flick is far from satisfied. This season, he wants to surpass the 100-point mark with three more wins, he said, and next year he will try to finally conquer the Champions League as well. But first, Flick needed to absorb that emotionally charged May 10. “I will never forget this day. Never. I’m truly happy here in Barcelona,” Flick concluded at the press conference. “For me, everything here is like a family.”
