Flick and González share pre-derby pleasantries at RCDE Stadium
Barcelona's Hansi Flick and Espanyol's Manolo González met for the traditional pre-derby managers' greeting, with Flick taking particular interest in the RCDE Stadium pitch.
The gaffer’s handshake has become a proper tradition before the Barcelona derby, with both managers meeting on the pitch for a quick chinwag and photo op.
Brief but friendly encounter
Following Manolo González’s press conference at RCDE Stadium, the Espanyol boss and Barcelona’s Hansi Flick emerged onto the Pericos’ turf at 2pm for their pre-match meeting. The encounter was brief—barely two minutes—but both managers appeared in good spirits, exchanging a few words and sharing smiles.
Safety nets were visible hanging at both ends of the stadium, preparations clearly underway for what promises to be a proper tasty derby atmosphere.
Flick’s pitch inspection
The German manager seemed particularly interested in the playing surface. His first move upon walking onto the pitch was to bend down and feel the turf with his hands—a bit of the old reconnaissance before the big match, clearly assessing what his technical players will be working with.
Jersey exchange and light moments
Both managers posed for photographers holding their respective team shirts. In a moment that brought some levity, Flick appeared surprised when he noticed the Barcelona shirt had Gavi’s name printed on it, prompting a brief joke between the coaches.
The traditional meeting concluded with the pair sharing an embrace before heading down the tunnel toward the dressing rooms.
With pleasantries now out of the way, both managers will be fully focused on the tactical battle ahead as Espanyol look to upset their more fancied neighbors, while Barcelona aim to maintain their title challenge.