De Jong vs. Flick: Barcelona Star Refused to Play, Coach Lost Trust

Tensions inside Barcelona have reached a boiling point. Local media report a complete breakdown in the relationship between head coach Hansi Flick and midfielder Frenkie de Jong. The conflict began during the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal against Atlético Madrid. Flick planned to start the 29-year-old Dutchman and substitute him after the 60th minute. But de Jong said he “didn’t want to take the risk” and refused to play. According to sources, Flick subsequently lost faith in the player and began building his plans for the next campaign without counting on de Jong. The midfielder was equally unhappy with how things unfolded. The situation escalated ahead of the new season when the club insisted on medical tests. De Jong delayed the process, worried the results could derail a potential summer exit from the club. Barcelona eventually pushed through. De Jong is expected to report to the medical center within the next 48 hours to receive the final medical verdict. After that, both sides will discuss his future.