Joan Laporta, Barcelona‘s president, comments on Hansi Flick‘s dismissal during the Girona match.
Following Barcelona’s 2-1 triumph over Girona, club president Joan Laporta criticized referee Gil Manzano, alleging partiality against the team after Hansi Flick was shown a red card. The German coach was sent off late in the match due to a second yellow card, which he received after disputing the added time while his side was pressing for an equalizer.
Joan Laporta’s Response
Speaking at the club’s general assembly, Laporta expressed his disagreement with the referee’s decision to dismiss Flick and revealed that the club has lodged an appeal against the two yellow cards.
“We have formally contested both yellow cards,” Laporta stated, as reported by Football Espana. “The official deliberately waited for a reaction before issuing the second booking. I understand it’s challenging to overturn such rulings, but I assured Flick that the club stands firmly behind him. The referee’s conduct was unacceptable.”
Barcelona president Joan Laporta | X
Laporta also highlighted a pattern with referee Gil Manzano, noting his tendency to issue red cards to Barcelona’s key players.
“This referee has a history of sending off nearly all our standout players. His record speaks for itself; we often expect no action, yet it happens repeatedly, especially before crucial fixtures.”
Reflecting on the match, Laporta added, “Our performance wasn’t up to our usual standards, but the win will boost our morale. It was remarkable to see a defender stepping up and scoring in an attacking role at the end.”