Barcelona manager Hansi Flick appeared displeased with the playing surface at the Metropolitano stadium prior to their Champions League fixture against Atletico Madrid. Barcelona faces the challenge of overcoming a 2-0 deficit from the first leg of their tie in the Spanish capital.
Speaking to the press before the match, Flick emphasized the need for his team to be adventurous in attack and cohesive in defense when playing on the Metropolitano pitch. Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal conveyed optimism, stating he did not view the comeback as an impossibility. However, the Barcelona boss remained preoccupied with the state of the pitch.
Flick was observed inspecting the pitch and subsequently remarked to UEFA delegate Christian Kofoed that it was too dry and the grass was excessively long for optimal play. Reports confirm that no formal complaint was lodged regarding the pitch. UEFA regulations stipulate a maximum grass height of 3cm, with the watering of the pitch being the responsibility of the host club.
Atletico Madrid has refuted claims of a subpar pitch. Sources indicate that Atletico strongly denies the pitch is in poor condition, asserting that it was significantly worse over a month ago when Barcelona played Los Rojiblancos in the Copa del Rey first leg at the Metropolitano. The prevailing interpretation is that a slower pitch might hinder Barcelona’s fluid play, yet it could equally benefit Diego Simeone’s side if they aim for rapid counter-attacks against Barcelona.
The Metropolitano pitch has drawn criticism earlier in the season. In an early goal for Los Colchoneros, the ball bobbled unpredictably before Joan Garcia could control it. Captain Koke Resurreccion had also expressed reservations about the surface in February, shortly after the pitch had been relaid.
