"El Clasico in the Champions League final? We still have a long way to go"

Hansi Flick reacted to the Champions League draw that took place earlier today as his Barcelona team will be facing Benfica in the round of 16. Although the 'Blaugranas' have already beaten the Portuguese side team earlier in the season during the league phase, Flick warned against undermining them.

The German boss insisted that there will be no easy fixture now that his players have entered the knockout stages of the competition, as he said: "They are playing very well. They are a tough opponent, it will be a tough match. For everyone in this situation, there are only tough games. It will be difficult to beat them."

The draw has placed Barcelona and rivals Real Madrid in opposite brackets, opening up the possibility of an unprecedented 'Clasico' in the Champions League final. But Flick was quick to shut down enthusiasm as he said that the Catalan giants must get over the Benfica hurdle before anything.

"First, we have to reach the final. That is the objective," the Barca manager told reporters. "Regarding the opponent, I don’t care." Speaking on a potential treble, Flick added: "Wow... It's really difficult, but if we want to win there can't be any excuses. Every opponent is tough."

 

February 21, 2025