Barcelona manager Hansi Flick defended the use of VAR after a series of controversial decisions during Monday’s La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano. Barcelona secured a 1-0 victory, with Robert Lewandowski scoring the winning penalty after a lengthy VAR review for a foul in the box that the referee had initially missed.
Rayo Vallecano expressed frustration over a denied penalty and a disallowed goal by Jorge de Frutos in the 42nd minute, which was ruled out after a VAR review. Despite these contentious moments, Flick remained firm in his support of VAR, stating, “I haven’t rewatched the incidents, but I will always stand by the VAR. We have the VAR, and I believe in the VAR.”
Reflecting on the game, Flick praised his players for their resilience, acknowledging that the match against a strong Rayo side was challenging. “It was a tough game for the players, and I’m proud of them,” he added. The win allowed Barcelona to move to the top of the La Liga standings, tied on 51 points with Real Madrid, but leading on goal difference. Atletico Madrid is one point behind, while Rayo sits in sixth place with 35 points.
Flick also emphasized the importance of staying focused despite the win, stating, “Everyone is happy, but I think we can also do better.” He added, “It’s very positive to move to first place, but we’re still in February, and there’s a long way to go. We will take it one game at a time.”
