Hansi Flick spoke to the media after Barcelona’s victory over Feyenoord and made his stance on Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or chances clear, saying the young winger deserves to win the prestigious individual award.
Flick began by highlighting the quality of Barcelona’s training sessions and explained that the session following the 5-0 win over Valencia had been the best of the year.
“The quality of our training sessions has been excellent. The one we had after the Valencia game (0-5) was the best of the year. I said that yesterday,” Flick said.
The Barcelona coach also praised the team’s ability to make changes without seeing its level drop.
“It’s good to see that we can make changes and the team maintains the same level. That’s good news for us,” he added.
Flick then addressed Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or candidacy and gave the winger his full backing.
“He’s my player, so of course I believe he does. He deserves to win the Ballon d’Or,” Flick said.
He described Yamal as “an exceptional, special player” and added that anyone who watches his matches knows that he deserves the award.
Flick also discussed the different players who have operated as the No. 9 for Barcelona, with Raphinha, Dani Olmo and Gabriel Jesus all featuring in the role.
“In every situation, and at every moment, we can make changes, and that’s a good thing,” he explained.
According to Flick, Olmo is particularly effective at controlling the ball and the game, while Raphinha brings intensity and attacks the space in behind.
“And when it comes to set pieces, we have Lamine,” Flick added.
Flick was also asked about the difference in playing styles between Barcelona and Real Madrid. The German made it clear that his focus remains firmly on his own team.
“I’m the coach of Barça and I’m happy to be here,” he said.
Flick believes Barcelona have made a strong start, pointing to their performances in the opening five games.
“I think we’ve done well in the first five games. We’ve scored a lot of goals and we’re playing as a team, as one unit,” he said.
The Barcelona coach also highlighted the connection between the team and its supporters.
“It’s fantastic to see this, and we like seeing that the fans are enjoying us,” Flick added.
Flick then reflected on whether this is the best Barcelona side he has coached.
“I like what I see, but I also see situations that we have to improve,” he said.
For Flick, the key to continued improvement remains the work done on the training ground.
“The most important thing, as I say, is the training. That’s where you improve. Then you get to the games, analyze them and try to do things better,” he explained.
Finally, Flick was asked whether the current Barcelona team reminded him of his Bayern Munich side that won the Sextuple.
The German coach said he did not like making comparisons, but admitted that he is enjoying his time in Barcelona.
“I don’t like comparing. But I’m happy in Barcelona,” Flick said.
He acknowledged that the team is showing plenty of promise, while stressing that there is still a long way to go.
“It looks good, but there’s still a lot to come. Everyone is hungry to improve, and that has an impact on the team and on how it behaves on the pitch,” he concluded.
Earlier, Flick had spoken to Movistar Liga de Campeones in a flash interview, giving his first analysis of Barcelona’s emphatic victory over Feyenoord in their Champions League opener.