‘It works for me’ – Hansi Flick reveals penalty superstition ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League tie

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has admitted he will not watch if Wednesday’s Champions League decider against Newcastle goes to penalties, citing a long-standing superstition that has served him well throughout his career.

The tie stands at 1-1 after the first leg at St James’ Park and, with extra-time and a shoot-out a realistic possibility at Camp Nou, Flick confirmed he will avert his eyes from any spot-kicks.

“I never watch them and it works for me,” the German told reporters. “I can watch the replay on the iPad, but I don’t watch penalty shootouts or anything if there were. It’s been a thing of mine forever. I don’t look. They say it’s OCD, but that’s how I am. I don’t like to see how penalties are taken. It’s a fantastic feeling when the fans scream and I find out what happened.”

Barcelona will hope to settle the contest inside 90 minutes and boast an impressive home record this season. A teenage talent made his debut against Newcastle in the first leg, adding youthful energy to Flick’s squad, while a former club striker believes the Catalans remain serious contenders for the trophy.

Should the match extend beyond regulation, Flick’s sideline ritual will again come into focus—one he insists he has no intention of abandoning.