Hansi Flick, FC Barcelona’s head coach, celebrated the victory over Athletic Club (2-0) and highlighted the debut of Rodrigo Hernández, who received a huge ovation from the Spotify Camp Nou crowd when he came onto the pitch.
“Everyone is happy that Rodri is playing with us. He is the perfect player for us, for our style. Bernal also had a fantastic game,” Flick said at his press conference about the club’s star summer signing.
Speaking to the club’s media channels, the Barça manager emphasized that “the important thing is the home victory and also keeping a clean sheet,” while adding that “Athletic have been a great opponent, but we were the dominant side.”
The Barcelona coach also spoke to DAZN and expressed his satisfaction with Raphinha’s performance as a center-forward, although he stressed that the most important thing is executing what they have worked on properly.
“It is important that we have a game plan and that whoever plays as a striker, whether it is Raphinha or someone else, follows that plan. He is doing very well. He is fantastic, dynamic. His intensity and runs are fantastic for us. He is perfect for us,” Flick said about Raphinha.
The German coach was pleased with another match without conceding goals but pointed out that “scoring goals is more important” in his style of play. Asked several times about the Julián Álvarez situation, Flick did not want to comment.
Another player Flick praised was Xavi Espart, who started again at left-back and now wears the number 12 shirt for the first team.
“I am very satisfied with what I see, even a little surprised by how he is playing at left-back. He is always focused. He is a player with good quality and is excellent in one-on-one defensive situations. He is top. I am very happy with him. Like all players, he still has room for improvement,” Flick said.
The Barça coach also highlighted the importance of Lamine Yamal playing the full 90 minutes so he can continue improving physically.
Flick also had praise for English winger Anthony Gordon. The manager said that “his speed and intensity are good for us, and he has a lot of potential to reach another level.”