UEFA Overturns Flick's Suspension: What It Means for Barcelona

Hansi Flick

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick's suspension has been overturned ahead of the Champions League opener against Newcastle. Find out what this means for the team.

“Said suspension is suspended during a probationary period of one (1) year, starting from the date of the present decision...” 

Hansi Flick's Suspension Overturned

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has successfully appealed a one-match suspension, allowing him to lead his team in the Champions League opener against Newcastle United. The German manager and his assistant, Marcus Sorg, were initially handed one-game bans by UEFA for their conduct during last season's Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan.

Flick's availability is a significant boost for Barcelona as they begin their Champions League campaign. The team will face a tough test against Newcastle United, who have shown impressive form under Eddie Howe. With Flick at the helm, Barcelona will look to make a strong impression in the competition.

UEFA has partially upheld Barcelona's appeal, allowing head coach Hansi Flick and his assistant Markus Sorg to sit on the bench for the upcoming Champions League match against Newcastle United. The coaches were initially handed one-game bans and €20,000 fines each for their behavior during Barcelona's Champions League semifinal exit against Inter Milan. According to UEFA, “Said suspension is suspended during a probationary period of one (1) year, starting from the date of the present decision.” This means Flick and Sorg will serve a one-year probation period, during which they must adhere to UEFA's rules to avoid further penalties.

Despite the partial lifting of their suspensions, Flick and Sorg will still have to pay the €20,000 fines each. If they breach UEFA's rules again within the probationary period, the suspended punishment will be enforced.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick's frustration boiled over during the Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan in May, where his team suffered a heartbreaking 4-3 defeat in extra time. Flick's intense reactions to several refereeing decisions drew the attention of UEFA's disciplinary committee, resulting in a one-game suspension. His animated protests on the touchline were deemed unacceptable, leading to the penalty. Flick's successful appeal has now allowed him to lead his team in the upcoming Champions League match against Newcastle United.

Time to train! 💪 pic.twitter.com/xmJEaWWVYe

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 11, 2025