Barcelona is gearing up to face Real Betis this evening in their final home match of the season, which will also celebrate Robert Lewandowski’s farewell as he has announced his intention to depart the club at season’s end.
Aside from Lewandowski’s poignant farewell, the match holds little significance for Barcelona, as they have already clinched the league title.
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Routine Changes
Tonight marks Lewandowski’s last home appearance for Barcelona. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
According to Diario SPORT, the team has implemented some unusual changes to their matchday routine ahead of tonight’s game.
In a break from tradition, players will dine at home and head straight to the stadium, bypassing the usual 1:00 PM assembly and team hotel stay.
Additionally, there will be no official squad announcement prior to the match, deviating from the standard procedure established since Flick’s arrival last season.
Barcelona’s laid-back approach follows their title victory over Real Madrid, as they have little left to achieve this season.
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Additional Adjustments for the Match Against Real Betis
Hansi Flick will aim to secure all three points. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
On the administrative side, the traditional luncheon for the board will be held at a different venue—Meliá Torre Melina hotel—rather than the customary location.
Neither Joan Laporta nor Rafa Yuste will attend, leaving directors Alfons Castro and Josep-Ignasi Macia to represent the club.
This represents a significant shift in routine for the team during their last home match of the season.
Real Betis finds themselves in a similar position, with nothing left to fight for as they cannot drop below fifth place, nor can they close the gap with fourth-placed Atlético Madrid, who hold a nine-point advantage heading into this matchday.