Yamal Returns to the Fold: Minutes Against Real Sociedad
Hansi Flick held a press conference on the eve of Barcelona’s La Liga clash with Real Sociedad, scheduled for Sunday at 19:30 on Channel One. The head coach confirmed that Lamine Yamal is back in the squad and can expect minutes against the Basque visitors. “He will be in the squad and can receive minutes,” Flick said, emphasizing that returning players must earn their place and that timing is key in a busy schedule. The focus remains on control and progression, both for the player and the team as a whole.
Injury Update: Joan Garcia
On the injury front, Flick acknowledged a setback for Joan Garcia, who has suffered a meniscus tear. “This is not good for Joan,” the coach noted. “He did a fantastic job, but this is part of football.” Flick pointed to the squad’s depth as a reason for confidence, recalling how a backup like Wojciech Szczesny stepped up when needed in the previous season, contributing to multiple titles. The message was clear: the group will adapt and respond with the resources available.
National Team Talk: Yamal’s Call-Up
Asked about a potential call-up for Yamal to the national team, Flick deflected the decision as outside his remit. “If he is called up, that’s great; it’s the national team coach’s decision,” Flick said, underscoring the distinction between club responsibilities and international duty.
Acknowledging Busquets and Rotation Policy
The press also touched on Sergio Busquets’ recent retirement. Flick paid tribute to the midfielder, praising his game intelligence and his exceptional understanding of how to read a match. On rotation, Flick reaffirmed that the strongest players deserve to play, noting that Toni Fernandez, among others, still has opportunities to prove himself in upcoming fixtures.
Return to Montjuïc: Surface and Setup
As Barcelona prepare to play at Montjuïc again, Flick voiced hope that the pitch will be in good condition after the recent work to restore the surface. The environment matters, he stressed, and a good playing surface helps the team execute its ideas more effectively.
Opponent Spotlight: Real Sociedad
Looking ahead to Real Sociedad, Flick highlighted the visitors’ clear game plan, noting their talented strikers and technically gifted players. “They have a clear idea of how to play,” he said, making it clear that this is a test of quality and discipline for his side, an opportunity to demonstrate the team’s depth and elegance on the ball.
Madrid Derby and PSG Focus
On the Madrid derby, Flick smiled and said he watches many matches and considers it a big weekend for Spanish football. He also reminded the room that the club’s focus remains on the next game: Real Sociedad. Only after that will plans be laid for the upcoming clash with PSG, with Flick insisting that the team has won four in a row and aims to keep the run going for the supporters. “We are focused on the next game,” he said, signaling a pragmatic approach common to elite teams.
Bottom Line
With Yamal back in contention, a refreshed squad despite injuries, and a clear plan for the short term, Flick’s Barcelona approach centers on consistency and control. Sunday’s Real Sociedad encounter offers another chance to showcase the depth of the squad and set the tempo ahead of high-stakes fixtures in both La Liga and the Champions League.
