Flick Addresses a Challenging Week and Key Selection Calls
In a concise, data-driven press conference ahead of Barcelona’s clash with Real Sociedad, coach Hansi Flick acknowledged that the recent run of fixtures has tested the squad. “What I wouldn’t give for a quiet week? It’s part of the job. I’m a coach, and I’m at Barcelona,” he stated, framing the week as a real test of leadership and adaptability. Flick insisted that the best way forward is to try to control what can be controlled, even when the calendar is unforgiving.
Beyond the emotional toll of a demanding schedule, Flick also spoke about the practicalities of squad management. “Injuries happen. We’re doing everything to understand why it happened and to adapt,” he said, underscoring the club’s approach to a season of persistent niggles. His overarching message was one of resilience and strategic adjustment, especially given the depth of Barcelona’s squad this term.
Lamine Yamal: Return on the Horizon
A central question at the podium was the status of Lamine Yamal, who has been sidelined recently. Flick confirmed that Yamal will be in the matchday squad and could receive minutes. “He will be in the squad and could get minutes. I don’t think there will be a relapse, although no one can know for sure. This is the right moment for him to return,” the coach said, signaling a cautious but confident plan for reintegration.
When asked about a potential new national-team call-up for Yamal, Flick declined to speculate, noting that selection decisions lie with the national team coach. “If they decide to call him up, that would be excellent. It’s not my role to decide,” he added, leaving room for external decisions to shape Yamal’s schedule outside club duty.
Injury Update: Joan Garcia and the Defensive Curve
Addressing the injury to Joan Garcia, Flick described the setback as “not good,” acknowledging the disruption it causes to defensive plans. The centrepiece of his reply was a tribute to Garcia’s previous form: “He did fantastic work, but football includes these moments. We’ve seen players respond in the past and we trust that he will recover well.” Flick also alluded to the experience of Szczesny from last season, noting that past contributors helped the club win titles and that there is no doubt about the character of the squad’s depth.
These remarks underscored a broader theme: while injuries are unfortunate, they also offer opportunities for others to step up and for younger players to gain meaningful minutes in a high-stakes environment. The coach’s emphasis on squad adaptability reflected a longer-term view of a season that demands both quality and breadth across competitions.
Real Sociedad Preview and Barcelona’s Focus
Turning to the next opponents, Flick praised Real Sociedad’s clear game plan and highlighted their dangerous attacking options. “They have a clear idea about how to play, with excellent forwards and several technically gifted players. It’s a good chance to showcase our quality as well,” he explained, signaling respect for a capable side and the challenges that come with facing them at home or away.
On the topic of the classic Madrid derby and the looming Paris Saint-Germain fixture, Flick kept the focus laser-sharp on the match at hand. “I watch a lot of games. For me it’s a good Saturday. Two big teams, and I will be watching,” he smiled, a reminder that elite coaches compartmentalize pressure by prioritizing the next test over envy of rivals.
Monjuïc Return, PSG-Focused Next Steps
When asked about returning to Montjuïc—Barcelona’s traditional venue in some fixtures—Flick expressed hope that the pitch would be in good condition, noting the organizers’ work to bring the surface up to standard. This set the stage for a clash with Sociedad that promises to be a tactically rich affair, with both sides seeking control of the ball and tempo.
Regarding the broader calendar, Flick reaffirmed his club’s philosophy: “We always focus on the next game. After that, we’ll plan for PSG. For now, Real Sociedad is the priority. We’ve won four in a row and want to keep that run going for our supporters.” The message was clear: maintain intensity, trust the process, and let the results do the talking in a fixture that could influence the trajectory of the season.
