Hansi Flick refuses Real Madrid questions as Barcelona prepare for Galatasaray test

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has refused to comment on Real Madrid’s criticism of refereeing, insisting his focus is solely on Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Galatasaray.

Barcelona face the Turkish side in the second round of the Champions League league phase, having opened their campaign with a 5-1 victory over Feyenoord.

Asked about Real Madrid’s complaints over officiating, Flick said: “I hope one day you understand that I never answer questions about other clubs. We are about to face Galatasaray and we have to respect them. It is a great stadium and the atmosphere is exceptional.”

Flick was also asked whether he would prefer Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior to feature in El Clasico, or another player to take his place.

“You can ask me that question in two weeks,” he replied.

Barcelona currently sit third on three points, level on goal difference with Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain.

Flick: Barcelona’s aim is to win

Flick said his team’s immediate objective was straightforward as they prepare to face Galatasaray.

“All I want is to win, and that is what we all want. It is our goal,” he said. “I am very happy when I see the players enjoying playing football.”

“It is great to be in this position, but things can change in football. What we can see here is that everyone is ready to play the match.”

Flick also confirmed Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus is available for selection, although he has not yet decided whether the player will feature.

“He is ready to play, but we do not know yet whether he will play. We will make the decision after training,” said Flick.

“We are extremely happy to have him. His arrival was a little surprise, and that has to be acknowledged. His attitude is excellent and he is a great player.”

The Barcelona manager was then asked how his team planned to contain Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen.

“We have to be ready for the match,” he said. “The atmosphere in this stadium is among the best in the world, and there are some scenes we see here that look incredible.”

Flick added that Galatasaray had made significant progress when facing leading teams and possessed a number of quality players.

“It is important for us to play as one unit and work together defensively,” he said.