Barcelona's Pitch Complaints At Atletico Madrid Stopped At Hansi Flick: Report

Last Updated:April 14, 2026, 12:43 IST

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick questions Atletico Madrid field conditions before Champions League quarterfinal second leg.

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick’s complaints about the field at Atletico Madrid have not gone to UEFA, as was the rumour, with the two sides all set to take on each other in the second leg of their Champions League quarterfinal encounter on Tuesday.

Flick appeared unimpressed with the field at the Metropolitano ahead of FC Barcelona’s Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid. The Blaugrana now face the task of overturning a 2-0 first-leg deficit in the Spanish capital.

Flick said before the match that he wanted his team to be brave in attack and compact in defence when they stepped onto the Metropolitano field. Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal insisted he didn’t view the comeback as a miracle.

But the FC Barcelona boss remained concerned about the playing surface ahead of the clash.

Flick was seen inspecting the field before telling UEFA delegate Christian Kofoed that the surface was too dry and the grass too long for the game, according to reports.

But Diario AS has confirmed that no official complaint has been lodged regarding the field. UEFA regulations stipulate that grass length must not exceed 3cm, while the amount of watering is left to the hosting club to decide.

The Metropolitano field remains in excellent condition, even better than a month ago when Barcelona visited Madrid for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. In that game, the opening goal came after the ball took an unusual bounce over Joan García, helping set up a 4-0 victory over Barcelona for Atletico Madrid.

Recent mild temperatures have further contributed to maintaining the quality of the field.

The broader reading is that a slower field, which may disrupt Barcelona’s passing game, could also impact Atletico Madrid if they look to play on the counter.

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