Flick to lead Barcelona against Real despite father's death
May 11, 2026
Madrid [Spain], May 11: Manager Hansi Flick will take charge of Barcelona in Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid despite the death of his father, reports BBC.com.
Tributes will be paid at the Nou Camp, with a minute's silence before kick-off (20:00 BST) and players wearing black armbands during the game.
Announcing the death on Sunday afternoon, Barcelona said: "FC Barcelona and the entire blaugrana family wish to send all our love to Hansi Flick after the passing of his father.
"We share in your sorrow and our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time."
Flick, 61, can deliver back-to-back La Liga titles for Barcelona with a win or draw against Real.
The former Bayern Munich and Germany manager has won four trophies with Barcelona since replacing Xavi in May 2024.
Their fierce rivals from Madrid said in a statement: "Real Madrid, its president and its directors deeply regret the death of the father of Hansi Flick.
"Real Madrid wants to express its condolences and affection to their families and all their loved ones. Rest in peace."
Mbappe to miss El Clasico
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe will miss the Clasico against Barcelona.
The French football star was not included in the squad list published by Madrid ahead of the match.
According to media reports, he's not yet fully recovered after an injury he suffered against Real Betis on April 24.
Barcelona need only a draw against their biggest rivals to clinch the La Liga title.
Source: Qatar Tribune
