NEW STORM IN BARCELONA!” — Hansi Flick erupts in anger amid chaos, accused of taking orders from the board to start Yamal against PSG despite a disciplinary breach. Outrage grows as Rashford was benched for the same reason.

Hansi Flick is facing a wave of controversy in Barcelona after explosive reports claimed that he was forced by the club’s hierarchy to start Lamine Yamal against Paris Saint-Germain, even though the young star had committed a disciplinary offense. The revelation has sent shockwaves through the dressing room and among fans, fueling accusations of favoritism and “double standards” at the Catalan club.

According to multiple Spanish outlets, Yamal arrived late to an important team meeting on the eve of the PSG clash. Under normal circumstances, such behavior would have resulted in a fine or a temporary exclusion from the matchday squad. However, in a surprising turn of events, the teenage sensation — who was recently named a finalist for the 2025 Ballon d’Or — started the Champions League encounter. Reports claim the decision came directly from the club’s directors, sparking fury among some within the squad.

The controversy intensified when fans and journalists recalled a similar incident involving Marcus Rashford. The English forward, currently on loan from Manchester United, was dropped from the starting XI against Getafe earlier this season for arriving late to training. Many have since questioned why Rashford faced punishment while Yamal escaped unscathed — reigniting debates over fairness and discipline inside the Barcelona camp.

In response, Hansi Flick publicly exploded at a press conference, rejecting the claims outright. “I want to know who spread this nonsense,” the German coach said firmly. “No one has ever forced me to start any player. I make my own decisions, and Deco along with the board respect that. These rumors are completely false.”

Despite his denial, tension continues to mount around Camp Nou. Barcelona have suffered back-to-back defeats — a 1–2 loss to PSG in the Champions League and a humiliating 1–4 defeat to Sevilla in La Liga. Though the Catalans remain second in the league table, just two points behind Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid, the atmosphere within the club feels increasingly unstable.

Yamal, who has missed several weeks due to a groin injury, has only featured in five matches this season but has already contributed two goals and four assists. His dazzling form has reminded everyone why he is considered one of the most promising players in world football. However, his recent disciplinary slip has sparked internal concerns about whether he is receiving special treatment because of his rising status.

Marcus Rashford, meanwhile, has earned praise for his professionalism and consistency since joining Barcelona on loan. The England international, who took a 15% pay cut to fulfill his dream of playing at Camp Nou, has notched three goals and five assists in ten appearances. His commitment and work ethic have made him a respected figure among teammates, drawing a stark contrast with the ongoing debate surrounding Yamal.

Barcelona sporting director Deco stepped in to calm the growing storm. “There’s absolutely no conflict between Yamal and Rashford,” he insisted. “We’re very happy with Marcus — his loan has no penalties, and Barcelona have the option to buy him. As for Yamal, he represents the future of the club, but every player must show the same discipline and respect.”

Rashford’s arrival came after Barcelona failed to sign Luis Díaz, who joined Bayern Munich for £65 million. To make the move possible, Rashford agreed to lower his weekly wages to around £315,000, with a buyout clause set at £27 million — a clear sign of his dedication to the Blaugrana project.

The alleged “double standard” may be nothing more than rumor, but it highlights the immense pressure Flick faces as he tries to balance discipline, authority, and results in a club that thrives on both passion and politics. Between internal power struggles and media scrutiny, the German tactician finds himself walking a fine line — trying to keep harmony in a dressing room filled with egos, expectations, and young stars hungry for glory.