Hansi Flick’s complaints force Atletico into pitch changes ahead of Barcelona tie

TL;DR

Hansi Flick's complaints about Atletico Madrid's pitch have led to UEFA enforcing changes before the Champions League match against Barcelona. The grass height will be set to 26mm, and the pitch will be watered before kick-off and at half-time.

Head coach of Barcelona, Hansi Flick, speaks during a press conference in Madrid, Spain, on April 13, 2025, ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 match between Atletico de Madrid and Barcelona at Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium. (Photo by Guillermo Martinez/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images

Hansi Flick’s complaints about Atletico’s pitch ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash with Barcelona appear to have paid off.

The Barcelona boss was spotted speaking to UEFA delegates about the turf when his team trained on the surface on Monday evening after arriving in the Spanish capital.

According to multiple reports, UEFA have confirmed to both clubs ahead of the game that the grass must be 26mm high (the maximum height allowed is 30mm) and the pitch must be well watered before kick-off and at half-time.

Flick’s complaints come after previous issues on Atletico’s pitch in the Copa del Rey semi-final between the two sides. Even Koke has admitted that the turf “is not on good condition” and it seems the Barcelona boss is doing his best to ensure it’s in as good as shape as it can possibly be for the huge game.

Barcelona head into the game 2-0 down from the first leg at Camp Nou. The winners will progress to play either Arsenal or Sporting into the semi-finas.

Q&A

What changes did UEFA enforce on Atletico Madrid's pitch before the Barcelona match?

UEFA mandated that the grass height be set to 26mm and that the pitch be well watered before kick-off and at half-time.

Why did Hansi Flick complain about Atletico Madrid's pitch?

Hansi Flick expressed concerns about the pitch conditions during a training session, prompting UEFA to intervene and ensure compliance with regulations.

When is the UEFA Champions League match between Atletico Madrid and Barcelona scheduled?

The match is scheduled for April 13, 2025.