Defending Champions Aim for Energy Boost Ahead of Athletic Club Semi-Final.

Hansi Flick Spanish Super Cup Barcelona

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has underlined the club’s determination to defend their Spanish Super Cup title, viewing success in Saudi Arabia as a vital springboard for the season on January 7, 2026.

The Blaugrana arrived in Jeddah as reigning champions after defeating rivals Real Madrid in last year’s final, and they kick off their campaign with a semi-final against Athletic Club on Wednesday.

Flick, drawing comparisons to Germany’s DFL-Supercup, expressed enthusiasm for the format: “This tournament is a little bit different (to the equivalent competition) in Germany, but I like it.”

He highlighted the psychological boost from last season’s triumph: “For us to win the Super Cup gave us a lot of energy for the rest of the season and this is also what we want this year.”

A victory would mark Barcelona’s record-extending 16th Supercopa title and set a positive tone amid a competitive campaign across multiple fronts.

With the team motivated and ready, all eyes turn to the clash against the Basque side.