Setien on Barça and the Flick Era: A candid look at a turbulent chapter

Setien Reflects on Barcelona Chapter and the What-Ifs

He confirmed he received all his financial dues from Barcelona.

Quique Setien, the former Barcelona coach, says he does not regret taking the job, despite the tough conditions around the club then.

He guided Barça for seven months, from January to August in 2020, there.

Speaking to Cadena SER, Setien insists he does not regret going to Barcelona instead of Egypt. He wished the experience could have unfolded under different conditions—youthful players, more optimism, and a livelier atmosphere. What he lived through was markedly different, and, unfortunately, carried a negative edge for him and the club.

Setien clearly admires Barcelona under Hans Flick, emphasizing the German coach's strong impact. He notices the players are the heroes, yet Flick's influence is unmistakable. He is a demanding coach, and the squad has embraced the idea. Sometimes the approach feels risky, but it gives Barcelona more than it takes. Setien says Flick is building a young team that feels balanced and exciting, and he likes what he sees.

On the financial side, Setien says Barcelona fulfilled all obligations to him, even though it took several years to pay. He confirms there is nothing owed now and he holds no grudges today.

Meanwhile, he highlights his ongoing dispute with Villarreal, noting he has not received any money to date, despite almost three years, and the case sits in court. Do not expect similar issues with clubs as big as Villarreal, in his own career.

Finally, he discusses Barcelona's Copa del Rey clash with Racing Santander, saying he is proud of his former club. Racing deserves what it gets; the Sardinero crowd is incredible, and the fans are behind their team, proud together.

Punchline 1: If Setien's tactics were a sniper, they'd miss the obvious target on purpose.

Punchline 2: In football as in life, sometimes the plan A is Plan A for a reason.