Key Takeaways:
- On appeal, UEFA has lifted the suspensions of Hansi Flick and Marcus Sorg ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League opener against Newcastle
- Both coaches remain under a 12-month “monitoring” period, with the ban to be reimposed if any further infractions occur
- Barcelona will cover all costs associated with the appeal following last season’s ban arising from the semi-final exit to Inter
Flick Eligible to Oversee Crucial European Opener
Barcelona have been handed a significant advantage ahead of their Champions League group stage meeting with Newcastle United, after UEFA decided to reverse the suspensions of manager Hansi Flick and his assistant Marcus Sorg. The reversal comes after the Catalan club submitted an appeal regarding the disciplinary action levied following last season’s contentious Champions League semi-final elimination against Inter.
Both Flick and Sorg were initially banned for one match, following accusations that they had contravened UEFA’s principles of conduct by openly protesting and criticising referee decisions during the dramatic clash with Inter. As reported by Mundo Deportivo, UEFA has now chosen to partially uphold Barcelona’s appeal, making both coaches available on the touchline at St. James’ Park. However, they will be subject to a year-long “monitoring” period – any repeat violation will trigger the ban alongside further sanctions.
🚨🎖| 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: UEFA has officially LIFTED the sanction on Hansi Flick and Marcus Sorg following Barça’s successful appeal. Both will be on the bench for the UCL clash against Newcastle. [@ffpolo] #fcblive pic.twitter.com/nvC4pdiG4P
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) September 12, 2025
Significance for Barcelona’s Campaign
This development arrives as a major boost for Barcelona ahead of their European campaign, especially given the challenge posed by an in-form Newcastle. Flick’s tactical guidance from the dugout is seen as vital, with Barcelona aiming for a strong start to the group stage following several unsuccessful attempts in the competition in recent years.
Continuity in leadership is particularly valuable, as the Blaugrana seek to regain European stature and recover momentum after a 1-1 league draw with Rayo Vallecano. Having Flick present on matchday ensures stability during this critical phase and helps maintain focus on their aspirations for continental honours.
UEFA’s Disciplinary Outcome and Club Response
| Individuals Involved | Original Ban | Appeal Outcome | Condition | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hansi Flick & Marcus Sorg | One-match suspension | Suspension lifted for Newcastle match | 12-month “monitoring” period; renewed breaches trigger ban | Barcelona to cover all appeal costs |
While the club will be responsible for the costs associated with appealing the ban, this is regarded internally as a minor trade-off for retaining their coaching staff’s availability for Champions League fixtures. UEFA’s warning remains clear: any recurrence of improper conduct within the next year could reinstate the suspension and provoke additional penalties.
Upcoming Fixtures and Focus
With seven points from their opening three La Liga fixtures, Barcelona are two points behind Real Madrid as they look to balance domestic ambitions with their European challenge. After their forthcoming league match against Valencia, attention will quickly shift to preparations for the high-profile encounter at St. James’ Park, where Flick’s presence is now assured.
