Barcelona Players Skip Press Conference Before Benfica Game
No Barcelona First Team Players to Attend UEFA Champions League Press Conference
Barcelona will not have any first team players present at their upcoming UEFA Champions League press conference on March 10. This decision comes as La Blaugrana prepare to face Benfica in the last 16 second leg on March 11, with the team holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg.
Impact of Recent Events on Barcelona Camp
The Barcelona camp has been deeply affected by recent events, particularly the tragic passing of club doctor Carles Minarro Garcia. The sudden loss has led to a somber atmosphere within the squad, with President Joan Laporta acknowledging the shock felt by the entire Barcelona family.
Changes in Preparations for Benfica Game
As a result of the recent events, Barcelona’s preparations for the upcoming match against Benfica have been altered. Training sessions have been adjusted to give players extra time to process the news and mourn the loss of a beloved member of the club.
Press Conference Arrangements and Match Preparations
According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have made arrangements with UEFA regarding their pre-match press duties. Only manager Hansi Flick will address the media before the game, with players focusing on their preparations for the match.
While no players are expected to miss the game, they will wear black armbands and observe a moment of silence in honor of Carles Minarro Garcia before kick off at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
Flick is likely to convey Laporta’s message and provide updates on the team’s readiness to face Bruno Lage’s Benfica.
Looking Ahead
With the quarter-final matchups now determined, Barcelona are aware that they will face either Borussia Dortmund or Lille in the next phase if they advance past Benfica. Beyond that, a potential semi-final clash against Bayern Munich or Inter Milan awaits at the end of April.
The second leg against Benfica is crucial for Barcelona as they aim to progress further in the UEFA Champions League and continue their pursuit of European glory.
