Barcelona ready for Clasico test after Champions League disappointment

Barcelona know exactly what is expected of them as they aim to bounce back from their Champions League exit when they face Real Madrid in a pivotal Clasico, so says Hansi Flick.

The Blaugrana were beaten 4-3 on Tuesday by Inter, sealing a 7-6 aggregate defeat, in an epic Champions League semi-final.

While their hopes of a treble have been dashed, Barca have little time to feel sorry for themselves.

They host rivals Madrid on Sunday in the fourth Clasico of the season. A win would move Flick's team seven points clear at the top of LaLiga with just three matches remaining.

"We're doing well," said Flick.

"After the defeat in Milan, everyone knows it's not easy, but we're doing things right. We've talked about what we want to do in these two weeks.

"There are four more games to go. El Clasico is important, we have to show how well we can play. We have to show confidence. The players are doing very well.

"We've been talking about what they are thinking, what they are feeling.

"We had to talk about it as a group. Everyone knows that in a Clasico you have to give 100%. You have to be active, intense, dominant. Real Madrid is a very good team, and we need the fans."

HANSI FLICK: “Everyone knows that in El Clásico you have to be at your highest level. And that is what the team has to do.” #ElClásico pic.twitter.com/gtFv3Wn1PM
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 10, 2025

Barca have conceded 10 goals in their last four games across all competitions, leading to questions over their solidity and the team's use of a high line when defending.

Flick, however, is content with his approach.

"When we started, I was clear about the philosophy. There have been games, especially at the beginning, where we saw doubts, but the team has adapted well," he said.

"They have also been improving and are happy with the style and how we want to play. When you see the quality of the players you are happy."

Flick explained he will not risk Robert Lewandowski from the off against Madrid, as the Pole continues his comeback from a hamstring injury.

Lewandowski has scored 11 goals in 17 matches against Madrid in all competitions; only Lionel Messi (26) and Luis Suarez (12) have scored more against Los Blancos in the 21st Century.

Barca have won all three of their matches against Madrid this season, most recently winning the Copa del Rey final in extra time.

Only once before have the Blaugrana won four or more games in a row against Los Blancos, under Pep Guardiola between 2008 and 2010.

Indeed, Flick has won all three of his matches against Madrid in all competitions. Of all the managers in the history of the fixture, only Guardiola has won his first four competitive matches.