Barça Suffers Defeat, Pedri Fears in Champions League

Goals from Sørloth and Julián Álvarez gave Atlético Madrid a crucial advantage in the tie, despite Barcelona dominating possession with ten men. Pedri was substituted at half-time due to "some discomfort," prompting Flick to take no risks with the young midfielder.

The German coach praised Gavi and Dani Olmo's "fantastic" performances in the second half, while highlighting the need to protect Lamine Yamal from opponents' "excessive roughness." Flick emphasized Yamal's importance to the team, comparing him to stars like Mbappé and Vinícius, as Barcelona prepares for the return leg in Madrid.