Getafe coach hits back at Flick: 'Even in defeat, you must remain a gentleman'

Getafe coach José Bordalás took aim at Barça coach Hansi Flick during the press conference ahead of the La Liga match against Real Sociedad on Sunday. Flick had previously been critical of Bordalás and his team's attitude and playing style following their recent encounter.

Getafe coach hits back at Flick: 'Even in defeat, you must remain a gentleman'
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The comments from Getafe coach José Bordalás were a pointed response to recent criticism from Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, who had taken issue with Getafe's approach during their recent clash.

Flick had publicly expressed dissatisfaction with Getafe’s playing style and attitude, but Bordalás was quick to dismiss the remarks as deflection from Barcelona’s inability to secure a victory. "I respect those who deserve respect," Bordalás said firmly. "It's nothing more than excuses when you don't win. It's easy to be a gentleman when you win 90% of your matches, but you must also be one when you lose."

Bordalás, whose Getafe side is currently fighting to avoid relegation in La Liga, appeared unfazed by the high-profile criticism. For him, respect in football is earned through mutual recognition, not through empty platitudes or public complaints. "As you know, I am a very respectful coach toward all my colleagues and everyone connected to the football world," he explained. "But I can summarize this very simply: I respect those who show respect. Those who lack respect do not deserve respect themselves."

The coach’s measured yet sharp response highlighted his frustration with what he sees as a recurring pattern when Getafe manages to frustrate bigger teams. Rather than acknowledging the effectiveness of Getafe's tactics or the hard work of the players, some opposing managers, according to Bordalás, focus on criticizing their approach to justify their own failures. "I hope they keep making those excuses," Bordalás added with a touch of irony. "That would be a good sign for us because it means we achieved a good result. I’m tired of ending matches with a loss and receiving compliments. They didn’t beat us because we played a great match."

The remarks reflect the ongoing challenges faced by smaller clubs like Getafe, which often adopt pragmatic strategies to compete with wealthier and more resource-rich teams. Bordalás has been an advocate for his team’s approach, emphasizing the importance of discipline, physicality, and tactical acumen in leveling the playing field against La Liga’s giants. For him, the criticism from Flick and others serves as a testament to Getafe's ability to disrupt the status quo, even if it doesn’t always translate to victories.

Bordalás also took the opportunity to underline the resilience of his squad in the face of constant scrutiny. "We know who we are as a team and what we need to do to survive," he said. "The road to success for us isn’t paved with flashy football or endless resources. It’s built on hard work, determination, and the willingness to fight for every point." While some may perceive Getafe’s style as overly physical or defensive, Bordalás sees it as a necessity in a league where financial disparities can make competition uneven.

Getafe’s battle against relegation has added an extra layer of intensity to their fixtures, with every point potentially making the difference between survival and relegation. Bordalás acknowledged the pressure but remained defiant. "Criticism doesn’t win matches; results do. We’re focused on doing what’s necessary to stay in this league, regardless of what anyone else says."

As Getafe prepares for their next crucial fixtures, Bordalás’s remarks are likely to resonate with his players and supporters, reinforcing a sense of unity and purpose. For a team that has often been cast as the underdog, criticism from larger clubs may feel like a badge of honor, a sign that they’re making an impact. Whether or not opposing managers like Flick continue to voice their displeasure, Bordalás and his team remain steadfast in their commitment to their identity and their fight for survival in La Liga.