“Celebrate With Respect” – Manager Recalls Past Violence in Rival Clash
Barcelona’s title celebrations took an abrupt turn Thursday night as manager Hansi Flick urgently ushered his players off the pitch following their 1-0 derby win over Espanyol, prioritizing safety over traditional jubilations.
The German coach’s decisive action came as tensions flared between players and stadium staff activated sprinklers during what should have been Barcelona’s triumphant moment. Flick later revealed he was determined to avoid repeating the dangerous scenes from 2022, when Espanyol fans stormed the pitch chasing Barcelona players after they clinched the title at their rivals’ ground.
“I saw what happened two years ago on television,” Flick told reporters. “Whatever needs to be done, always with respect. You fight for three points, then we’ll do what’s right – and what’s safe.”
Only teenage goalscorer Lamine Yamal appeared to anticipate the need for restraint, immediately heading for the tunnel after his match-winning strike while teammates initially celebrated. Flick’s quick intervention prevented potential altercations as Espanyol players – frustrated by both the result and their own relegation worries – grew increasingly physical at full time.
The cautious approach proved justified when considering the night’s other disturbing incident outside the stadium, where a car accident injured 15 fans. While police believe this was accidental, it contributed to an atmosphere of tension surrounding the Catalan derby.
Barcelona’s players eventually celebrated their domestic treble (adding to their Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey triumphs) in the safety of their dressing room – a compromise between achievement and security that Flick deemed essential in one of Europe’s most volatile local rivalries.
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