"Ask Real Madrid" – Hansi Flick accuses Real Madrid of disrespecting the Copa del Rey and downplaying the tournament's significance
Tomorrow, Flick's side faces an extremely important match.
Details: On the eve of the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atlético Madrid, Barcelona's 60-year-old head coach Hansi Flick delivered a provocative response at a press conference when asked about the significance and prestige of the Copa del Rey.
- See also: Al-Masry vs Wadi Degla: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 11 February 2026
One journalist asked:
"What do you think of those who downplay the value of this trophy or try to strip some of its importance because no top-tier team has been faced yet this year?"
Flick replied briefly but with a double meaning:
"Ask Real Madrid."
Previously, Real Madrid and Barcelona fans have often debated whether the Copa del Rey is truly a prestigious competition, especially when compared to the La Liga title.
Notably, Real Madrid are not in the Copa del Rey semi-finals this year, as the Galacticos were sensationally knocked out by modest Albacete in the round of 16. Precisely because Real exited the tournament so early, there is a prevailing opinion that the Copa del Rey is not a top-priority competition for Spain's football giants.
Reminder: A blow for Barcelona. Official: Marcus Rashford to miss Atlético clash due to injury
Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert