FC Barcelona endured a shocking 0:4 defeat against Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals, which has led to severe criticism of coach Hansi Flick from various media outlets. The loss was particularly striking due to the poor performance displayed by Barcelona, especially during the first half, which ended with Atlético Madrid leading by four goals without reply. This substantial defeat casts doubt on Barcelona's ability to defend their title in the Copa del Rey, raising questions about the team's current form and strategy under Flick's management.

The aftermath of this defeat has seen the Spanish press express their dismay, with terms like 'unrecognizable Barça' being employed to describe the team's performance. Leading sports outlets in Spain described the defeat as a 'catastrophic' showing for the squad, emphasizing the apparent decline in form since the start of the season. Additionally, with Barcelona's hopes for advancing to the Cup final under serious threat, there are increasing concerns among fans regarding Flick's future as the head coach and the overall direction of the team.

This defeat not only impacts Barcelona's status in the Copa del Rey but also casts a shadow over their ambitions in other competitions, including the league. The criticism aimed at Flick and his tactics reflects frustration from fans and pundits alike, suggesting that significant changes may be needed to reverse the team's fortunes and regain their competitive edge in Spanish football. The pressure is mounting on Flick as he navigates through a challenging period in his coaching tenure, making the next steps vital for both his future and that of the club's aspirations.