Later tonight, FC Barcelona lock horns with Atletico Madrid in a must-win match in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie.
Trailing by two goals from the 0-2 defeat in the first leg at the Spotify Camp Nou, the Blaugrana have a huge challenge ahead of them, for beating Atletico at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano will not be easy.
Coming into the game, Barça have expressed concerns over the condition of the pitch at Atletico’s home.
Indeed, manager Hansi Flick was seen complaining about the grass to a UEFA delegate before training began on Monday.
Following that, Barcelona even asked UEFA to inspect the pitch at the Metropolitano.
UEFA downplay concerns
Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, UEFA has moved to calm Barcelona about their concerns about the pitch conditions at the Metropolitano ahead of the Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona had concerns about the pitch at the Metropolitano. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
As is standard before European fixtures, UEFA held an operational meeting with representatives from both clubs to finalise all arrangements. Barcelona raised the issue during these discussions.
However, according to internal sources, UEFA’s initial response was to downplay the situation and reassure the club.
Officials confirmed that they will “measure and cut” the grass if necessary, stressing that there is a clear protocol in place and that there is no cause for concern.
Deco, Barça’s sporting director, had already expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved. As the hours pass, the initial concern within the club is fading, and there is now little doubt that the pitch will be in proper condition for such a high-stakes match.
