After a hard-fought victory against Leganés… Hansi Flick praises Barcelona warrior star and warns this player to dismiss!

Barcelona continues to march confidently toward La Liga glory after grinding out a narrow but crucial 1-0 win over relegation-threatened Leganés. The victory pushed the Catalans to 70 points, firmly at the summit of the league table, seven points clear of arch-rivals Real Madrid, at least temporarily. Despite the scoreline being slim, the implications of the match were massive, and coach Hansi Flick knew it.

The win did not come easily. Leganés, sitting second to last in the standings with just 28 points, fought tooth and nail in a desperate attempt to snatch something from the encounter. Barcelona struggled to find rhythm for much of the match, but their quality eventually prevailed—though not without last-minute drama that nearly cost them everything.

Following the intense battle, Hansi Flick was full of praise for several of his key players, most notably veteran defender Iñigo Martínez. The Spanish centre-back produced a game-saving intervention in the dying moments of the match, preventing what looked like a sure equalizer from Leganés. Flick labeled Martínez a “warrior” and emphasized the importance of such leadership in a title race that allows no room for error.

“Iñigo saved us,” Flick was quoted as saying by El Nacional. “That last-minute clearance was as good as a goal. Players like him give everything for the badge, and that’s the mentality I want in this team.”

Another player to earn Flick’s admiration was Dutch maestro Frenkie de Jong. Although the midfielder started the match on the bench, his second-half introduction completely changed the dynamics of the midfield. Flick was reportedly thrilled with De Jong’s impact, praising his vision, composure, and calm authority in transitioning the team from defense to attack.

“When the team needs you, you always answer the call,” Flick told De Jong in the dressing room after the match, according to sources. “You bring clarity, control, and confidence. You’re irreplaceable.”

Despite the win, not all players received positive feedback. Young prodigy Lamine Yamal, often hailed as the future of Barcelona, came under heavy criticism from Flick for what the coach viewed as selfish play and unnecessary dribbling that broke the team’s tempo. The German tactician didn’t mince words—he issued a stern warning that Yamal could find himself on the bench in their upcoming Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund if he doesn’t learn to play more collectively.

“Talent is only valuable when it serves the team,” Flick reportedly told the youngster. “You need to simplify your game. These are not the streets; this is Barça.”

The internal tension heightened when Barcelona president Joan Laporta made an impromptu visit to the locker room after the match. While congratulating the players on the victory, Laporta made his stance clear regarding the team’s tactical approach, particularly the use of Eric Garcia in midfield.

Laporta was openly critical of Garcia’s inclusion at the expense of De Jong. While respecting Flick’s authority, the president expressed concern that the decision could have cost them the match—and potentially the season. “I don’t want to see Frenkie de Jong on the bench again,” Laporta is said to have stated. “He is essential. The team loses its spine without him.”

This exchange is the latest chapter in a developing power dynamic between Flick and Laporta. While the German manager is known for his disciplined and calculated strategies, Laporta remains emotionally invested in certain players and is unafraid to voice his opinions, especially when it comes to high-stakes fixtures.

Internally, this has sparked debates among the technical staff and fans alike. While some support Flick’s vision of squad rotation and building depth, others believe key players like De Jong must be untouchable in important matches. With both the domestic title and Champions League dreams on the line, these decisions could shape Barcelona’s destiny this season.

Flick, however, remains focused and determined. Despite the differing opinions, he continues to push for tactical discipline and squad unity. Sources indicate that the coach still has full authority over team selections, but Laporta’s comments have added a new layer of pressure to an already intense campaign.

Meanwhile, De Jong’s role in the squad has become even more vital. His recent performances have only strengthened the argument that Barcelona’s best football is played with him on the pitch. Fans have rallied behind the Dutchman, demanding his consistent inclusion in the starting eleven.

Lamine Yamal’s situation is equally significant. As one of the most promising young talents in Europe, how Flick manages his development could determine the player’s trajectory at the club. Whether he can adapt to the tactical discipline Flick demands remains to be seen.

In the end, the hard-fought win against Leganés may go down as one of the season’s defining moments—not just for the three points, but for the internal statements it forced. Barcelona showed they could dig deep, defend under pressure, and find match-winners when it matters most.

But with Borussia Dortmund looming and the season reaching its climax, Flick has tough decisions to make. Will he continue to take risks with rotations, or will he lean into the tried-and-tested core of the squad?

One thing is clear—Barcelona’s path to glory this season is as much about what happens off the pitch as on it. And as tensions simmer between coach, president, and players, the story is only just beginning.