Flick Slams FIFA XI: Raphinha Snub Called A 'Joke'

FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has publicly criticized FIFA's The Best Men's XI, deeming Raphinha's omission a "joke in bad taste." Flick emphasized the Brazilian winger's stellar 2024/2025 season, which included a domestic treble and leading the Champions League in combined goals and assists, making his exclusion from the top eleven inexplicable and unjust.

Despite the controversy surrounding the awards, Flick reflected positively on the past year, calling 2025 "my best year" due to the team's successes. However, he stressed the need to focus on future objectives and replicate past achievements, acknowledging that not all goals were met. Flick also noted the team's strong performance despite the past season's achievements.

In team news, Flick confirmed that Pedri will be unavailable for the upcoming match against Villarreal due to a quadriceps injury. The coach stated that while Pedri could risk playing, the potential for a two-month absence is too high, opting instead for a cautious treatment approach. Pedri is expected to return for the derby against Espanyol and the Spanish Super Cup.