Breaking News: “I cautioned Hansi Flick about that specific player, but he chose not to bench him, and they ended up losing to Real Betis, a match that could have put them 5 points ahead in the league. Flick is repeating the same mistake now, and I’m warning him again,” said former Barcelona star Lionel Messi, identifying one player who shouldn’t be starting for Barcelona and warning Flick about a critical error.

Messi Criticizes Flick’s Decision After Barcelona’s Loss to Real Betis

In a rare show of public criticism, Lionel Messi has voiced his frustration with Barcelona’s recent tactical misstep under manager Hansi Flick. The Argentine icon revealed he had previously cautioned Flick about a certain player, suggesting that the individual’s continued inclusion in the starting lineup played a major role in Barcelona’s disappointing loss to Real Betis — a result that could seriously affect their title challenge.

“I warned Hansi Flick about that player,” Messi said during a conversation with a Spanish media outlet. “He ignored my advice, and it cost the team. That match could have given Barça a five-point lead — now they’re forced to play catch-up.”

Although Messi refrained from naming the player directly, reports indicate he was referencing a senior midfielder whose recent performances have raised concerns within and outside the club. This player is believed to be unsettling Barcelona’s midfield dynamics, weakening the overall structure, which Real Betis exploited with ease.

Flick, who had initially impressed fans with a positive start to his Barcelona tenure, is now under increasing pressure. His consistent reliance on aging or underperforming players, limited squad rotation, and cautious substitutions have drawn criticism. Now, even Messi — a club legend — has joined those questioning the manager’s judgment.

“He’s repeating a costly mistake,” Messi emphasized. “In a title race, there’s no room for sentiment. Decisions must be made based on form, not reputation.”

The defeat exposed more than just a lack of points. Barcelona’s midfield appeared sluggish, transitions were ineffective, and the defense looked vulnerable — all signs pointing toward deeper tactical issues. Messi’s comments imply that Flick’s loyalty to a particular player may be at the heart of these problems.

Following Messi’s statements, fans took to social media, praising his honesty and echoing the call for changes in the squad. While the player’s identity remains unofficial, the overall message is loud and clear: for Barcelona to succeed, personal attachments must be put aside.

Now, with the title race heating up, Flick finds himself at a critical juncture. Will he heed Messi’s warning and make bold changes, or risk letting the season slip away due to stubborn choices?

One thing is clear: when Messi speaks, his words carry weight — and the Barcelona camp is listening.