After a dramatic 4-3 comeback victory by Inter Milan on Tuesday evening, the Italian club secured their place in the Champions League final in Munich, pending the result between Arsenal and PSG. Barcelona, on the other hand, was left to process a painful defeat.
According to *El Nacional*, German coach Hansi Flick placed significant blame on Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, accusing him of playing a major role in Barcelona’s elimination. Flick believes the referee overlooked two clear penalty opportunities for Barça and failed to call a foul that led to Inter’s last-minute equalizer.
But Flick’s frustration didn’t stop with the officiating. The report claims he severely criticized young defenders Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín for their poor performances. Cubarsí conceded a crucial penalty, leading to Inter’s second goal, while Martín was responsible for two of the goals scored against Barcelona.
Additionally, Flick is said to have been furious with Ronald Araújo, who failed to mark Francesco Acerbi in the final minutes, allowing Inter to equalize and push the game into extra time. The coach reportedly demanded Araújo be removed from the team immediately and urged club president Joan Laporta to sell the player during the upcoming transfer window.
Despite his harsh criticism of some players, Flick acknowledged the effort of Pedri and Lamine Yamal, praising their commitment and intensity throughout the match. However, he lamented that their performances were overshadowed by key defensive errors and Raphinha’s lack of presence—aside from one involvement in the third goal.
In a surprising move, President Laporta entered the dressing room after the defeat to offer his support. Nonetheless, he appears to share Flick’s view on Araújo, reportedly telling the Uruguayan defender to find a new club due to his repeated costly mistakes.
