Good News for Barcelona Ahead of Champions League: Flick and Sorg Released from Suspension

Staff Reporter | PNN

Barcelona has received reassuring news ahead of the upcoming 2025-26 Champions League season. Head coach Hansi Flick and assistant coach Markus Sorg have been cleared from a one-match suspension for breaching conduct rules.

As a result, both will be present on the dugout for the group stage opener against Newcastle on September 19.

Last season, after losing 4-3 to Inter Milan in the semifinals and protesting a controversial referee decision, UEFA had suspended Flick and Sorg for one match. In addition, Flick was fined €20,000 and Sorg €5,000. However, following the club’s appeal, the suspension has been deferred for one year. This means that the suspension will only take effect if a similar offense occurs within a year, though the financial penalties still apply.

Alongside the coaches, two star players, Lamin Yamal and Robert Lewandowski, were fined €5,000 each for failing to comply with anti-doping officials’ instructions.

The Catalan club has also been fined for fans’ inappropriate behavior. €5,250 was imposed for objects thrown onto the field, and €2,500 for the use of fireworks, totaling €7,750 in fines due to fan misconduct.

Barcelona is now focusing on preparations for their first Champions League match, with Flick and Sorg fully available to support the team.