Barcelona are two points away from winning _La Liga_ and could clinch the title on Thursday night in the Catalan capital Derby against Espanyol at _Cornellà_. This same scenario took place two years ago when Barça dominated their local rivals at their stadium to win the championship, but the post-match celebration was cut short when the _Blaugrana_ players were chased off the pitch by Espanyol fans.
And Barça’s current coach doesn’t want a repeat of those ugly scenes. Hansi Flick was asked in a press conference on Wednesday about the chance of winning the title in the Derby, and sent a warning to his players about the importance of celebrating with respect to avoid a repeat of what happened two years ago.
> “I don’t think it’s a good idea to talk or think about celebrations before the game. You have to focus on the game. I saw what happened two years ago on television. Whatever needs to be done, always with respect. You have to fight for the three points, and then we’ll do what’s right.”
It’s important to note that the people to blame for what happened last time are Espanyol fans, not Barça’s players. The _Blaugrana_ had the right to celebrate, and all they did was get in a circle in midfield and celebrate with each other. They did nothing to taunt or provoke the crowd, and a few idiots decided to be the main character and make themselves the story.
But the precedent has unfortunately been set, and Barça must be aware of the high likelihood of the same thing happening again.