Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has refused to be drawn into questions about Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr ahead of his side’s Champions League meeting with Galatasaray, insisting that the focus must remain on their upcoming opponents.
Flick faced the media on Monday ahead of Barcelona’s trip to Istanbul, where the Catalan side will face Galatasaray at RAMS Park in the second round of the Champions League fixtures.
With Vinicius at the centre of attention following his red card over the weekend, Flick was asked about the Brazilian and whether he would prefer the Real Madrid forward to be available for the upcoming El Clasico.
However, the Barcelona manager made it clear that he had no intention of discussing a rival club while preparing for an important European fixture.
“I hope you’ll learn someday that I never answer questions about other teams. We’re about to play against Galatasaray. Let’s respect Galatasaray,” Flick told reporters.
When asked whether he wanted Vinicius to be available for El Clasico, Flick offered a brief response: “Ask me again in two weeks.”
Flick praises Galatasaray atmosphere
Flick also highlighted the challenge Barcelona will face in Istanbul, warning his players to be prepared for the intense atmosphere expected at RAMS Park.
The Barcelona boss described Galatasaray’s home support as among the best in world football and stressed the importance of remaining united throughout the match.
“We have to be prepared for the atmosphere. It’s one of the best in the world. It’s incredible. The sound of the stadium is amazing,” he said.
Flick also acknowledged Galatasaray’s improvement against major opponents, adding that Barcelona would need to stick together to deal with the pressure.
The comments underline the importance of concentration for Barcelona as they look to navigate a difficult away fixture in the Champions League.
Gabriel Jesus could retain his place
Flick also provided an update on Gabriel Jesus, who impressed against Getafe after making his first start for Barcelona.
The Brazilian forward scored in that match, and his performance appears to have made a positive impression on the manager. With captain Raphinha still unavailable, Jesus could have another opportunity to feature in the starting line-up against Galatasaray.
“He’s ready. Whether he plays, which we don’t know yet, we’ll decide after training,” Flick said.
The Barcelona manager was full of praise for Jesus, highlighting both his attitude and his quality on the pitch.
“We’re very happy with him. He’s a bit of a surprise, we have to admit. His behaviour is fantastic and he’s a great player,” Flick added.
Jesus’ potential involvement will be one of the key selection decisions for Barcelona ahead of the match, although Flick has indicated that the final call will come after training.
Barcelona turn their attention to Champions League test
With the build-up to El Clasico already attracting attention, Flick is determined to keep his squad focused on the immediate challenge against Galatasaray.
The atmosphere in Istanbul, the absence of Raphinha and the possibility of Jesus retaining his place are among the main talking points ahead of the fixture.
For Flick, however, the priority is clear: Barcelona must be ready for Galatasaray rather than become distracted by events involving their domestic rivals.
His refusal to discuss Vinicius also leaves the door open for further questions as El Clasico approaches, with the Barcelona manager suggesting that he may be willing to address the subject closer to the match.
For now, his attention remains firmly on Europe and the challenge awaiting Barcelona in Istanbul.
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