Hansi Flick talks Balde, Eric Garcia, Joan Garcia, Rashford, de Jong, Ter Stegen ahead of Barcelona vs Osasuna
Following a 2-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League, FC Barcelona are now preparing to face CA Osasuna in their next La Liga game. The Catalans sit four points clear at the top of the league table and will be looking to maintain their lead by the end of this gameweek.
Ahead of the clash, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick spoke at a press conference yesterday, addressing various aspects of his team and the upcoming match, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Flick opened the presser by addressing the challenge posed by Osasuna:
“In La Liga, every match is difficult if you don’t play at 100%. We’ve prepared well; it doesn’t matter who the opponent is. We’re focused on ourselves, preparing the players for what we need tomorrow, and fighting for the three points.”
The German coach also praised the competitive environment within the Barcelona squad, which he believes is key to improvement:
“In a team like Barça, at this level and with so many competitions, it’s important to have competition within the squad. This helps players improve. The situation with Ferran and Lewy is good for the team. What I’ve seen in the last four weeks has delighted me. Ferran is at a great level. Training quality is different than two months ago. This is Barça’s level. If we train at this level, we can improve; that’s basic.”
On Eric Garcia’s role and defensive options, Flick explained:
“At the moment, we have seen Eric as a ‘6’ and he did well. Perhaps for now, he should continue like that. It’s important that everyone recovers properly. Tomorrow we will decide. Eric can play as a ‘6’.”
Flick also discussed Frenkie de Jong’s situation:
“I’ve said it before. This is the current moment. In recent matches, we’ve played well with Cuba, Gerard, Balde, and Eric as the ‘6’. Frenkie was sick and needs to recover. The important thing is to have the best eleven on the pitch.”
Even with a comfortable lead over Real Madrid, Flick stressed the importance of maintaining focus:
“This is a long journey. It’s December, and there are many matches left. For us, it’s important to focus on ourselves. We have the quality and can beat anyone; that’s what we want to do. There are things we can improve, and that’s what I’m focused on. Now is not the time to think that we are first.”
On goalkeeping, he confirmed his trust in Joan Garcia amidst the return of Marc-André ter Stegen:
“Joan is number one. But I don’t see a second or third. Joan will not be changed; he’s doing very well.”
Regarding Marc-André ter Stegen, he kept the discussion he had with the German shotstopper private:
“I’ve spoken with him; it’s my job. But that stays between him and me.”
When asked about Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso, Flick reiterated his focus on Barça:
“I focus 100% on our own matters.”
He also praised Marcus Rashford’s attitude, despite him not being a guaranteed starter:
“If he’s on the bench, it means we have chosen a strong team. He has a great attitude and is in his best moment. I talk with the players, and he told me not to worry; what matters is the team. That’s the attitude. I’m very happy he’s here.”
Eric Garcia’s versatility earned further recognition from Hansi Flick:
“He has the great quality of playing in multiple positions. When Frenkie couldn’t play, we decided he would play as a ‘6’ and he did well. We can choose different positions. He defends well but also contributes with ball progression and gives us options. It’s very good to have him.”
On Alejandro Balde, Flick added:
“He’s a young player. I see him playing well; he’s focused and training a lot after his injury. He has a lot of potential. I think he has the quality to play for Spain, but he must show it in every match. He’s fast and good with the ball; he can improve his crossing. His attitude is good.”
The German coach concluded by making it clear that he is not going to talk about Real Madrid, who are going through a crisis:
“I don’t want to talk about that. I don’t want to talk about Real Madrid; I want to talk about Barça. That’s why I’m here.”
There is no doubt that every team is challenging in La Liga, but hopefully, Barcelona would be able to get the job done and get the full three points from this game.
