Simeone and Flick criticize La Liga for not stopping: 'If it were up to me...'

The coaches Diego Simeone (Atlético de Madrid) and Hansi Flick (Barcelona) expressed strong criticism on Saturday regarding the Spanish League's decision not to suspend matches over the weekend in light of the catastrophic floods that devastated the Valencia region.

The natural disaster has resulted in an estimated 205 deaths and approximately 1,900 people still missing, leaving an entire nation in shock and mourning.

Simeone, known for his impassioned leadership, voiced his disapproval in a post-match interview, emphasizing the emotional toll of the tragedy. “It doesn’t make sense to play. What is happening is very harsh. There are people suffering; it’s very sad,” he said, conveying not only his own perspective but also the sentiment shared by many within the football community. The Atlético coach's words highlighted the dissonance between the sport’s ongoing schedule and the human tragedy unfolding in the country.

Hansi Flick, who took charge of Barcelona this season, echoed these sentiments with equally strong remarks. “If it were up to me, the championship would have stopped this weekend,” Flick stated, underscoring his belief that football should not proceed in the face of such significant loss and suffering. The German manager, who is known for his empathetic approach and advocacy for player and community well-being, pointed out that the focus should be on supporting those affected by the floods rather than continuing with the competition.

The tragedy has cast a somber shadow over the league, prompting questions about the priorities of sports organizations in times of national crisis. While matches went ahead as scheduled, criticism has mounted not only from coaches but also from players, fans, and commentators who feel that a moment of pause would have shown solidarity and respect for those affected by the disaster.

Reports from the Valencia region detail the extent of the devastation, with entire communities submerged and emergency services working tirelessly to rescue and support survivors. The scale of the disaster has overwhelmed local authorities, leading to appeals for additional resources and assistance.

Despite the voices calling for the league to halt, La Liga officials defended their decision, citing logistical challenges and the potential impact on the competition calendar. However, this reasoning has not satisfied critics who argue that human compassion should take precedence over sporting schedules.

The comments from Simeone and Flick have resonated with many, sparking further discussion on how professional sports can balance their obligations with social responsibility in times of crisis. As the country mourns and rescue operations continue, the debate over the appropriateness of continuing the league under such circumstances is likely to persist.

This incident adds to a broader conversation about the role of football in society, particularly when faced with natural disasters and humanitarian crises. Many are now looking to the Spanish Football Federation and La Liga for a more comprehensive response that acknowledges the severity of the situation and prioritizes empathy and solidarity over competition.