The upcoming match comes at a crucial moment for Barcelona, following a disappointing defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League group stage. Last season, under head coach Julian Nagelsmann’s successor, Barcelona came within minutes of reaching their first Champions League final in a decade, making this year’s campaign even more pressing for manager Hans-Dieter “Hansi” Flick.

Flick openly addressed his recent emotional outbursts, including his red card during Barcelona’s dramatic 2-1 LaLiga victory over Girona on Saturday. Ronald Araujo’s stoppage-time goal secured the win, but Flick’s protests against refereeing decisions in the dying minutes earned him a sending-off.

The 60-year-old German admitted that the intensity of the moment got the better of him.

“I’m not more nervous, but maybe my emotions are different than before,” he said at Monday’s press conference.

“I remember coaching Bayern Munich during our 8-2 win over Barca, and I never smiled after scoring eight goals. Now, I feel more emotions. This club has completely changed me. I love this club, I love Barcelona, I love the people here—it’s incredible. I give my all for this club.”

Flick also reflected on his public outbursts, saying, “Honestly, I don’t like seeing myself like that on TV, and I don’t want my grandchildren to see their grandfather behaving this way. Maybe I have to change my behaviour.”

Barcelona are facing a challenging period with multiple injuries to key players, including Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Ferran Torres, and Dani Olmo. Flick’s attacking options are limited, and he is expected to field a front three of Fermin Lopez on the left wing, Marcus Rashford as central striker, and 18-year-old Lamine Yamal on the right against Olympiakos.

“Marcus can play as a number 9 or number 11,” Flick explained. “He’s versatile and has given us a lot of positives. Of course, he can play as a centre forward.”

Barcelona currently sit 16th in their Champions League group with three points from two matches, while Olympiakos are 29th with just one point.

The club has appealed Flick’s red card, hoping he will be able to manage from the touchline during Saturday’s LaLiga clash against Real Madrid, who trail Barcelona by two points in second place. However, Flick acknowledged the appeal might not succeed.

“I had nothing against the referee; I wasn’t complaining, but he saw it differently, and I have to accept it,” he said.

“The atmosphere today was very good. I love to see this kind of spirit. We are a young team, and we need it.”