Hansi Flick was all smiles after the match at Elche’s Martínez Valero Stadium. He could not have asked for a better league debut. Barcelona began their title defence with a commanding 5-0 victory over Elche, in a game where the Blaugrana found solutions despite playing without a traditional centre-forward. Raphinha and Fermín both scored braces, while Adeyemi completed the rout, but beyond the scoreline, the German coach delivered several important messages during his press conference.
Flick focused on one of the main concerns he had before the game: “I was worried about losing possession. We had to control the ball, and in the end, keeping a clean sheet is fantastic, and scoring five goals is great,” explained the manager, who also praised Elche’s approach. “They play good football, they are brave, and we took advantage of the spaces.”
The big win also reignited the debate over whether Barça need to sign a No. 9. Barcelona once again showed they can create danger with a fluid attacking setup, but Flick did not rule out strengthening that position. “We will have to talk with Deco and do what is best. It will be next week,” he said. The German coach, however, wanted to enjoy the team’s opening performance first: “We are happy with the fantastic start we have had. It gives us confidence. I’m pleased with the 5-0 and the three points.”
One of the standout figures of the night was Raphinha. The Brazilian scored twice and once again acted as Barça’s main attacking reference despite not playing as a traditional No. 9. For Flick, his importance goes far beyond his goalscoring numbers. “Rafa is the player who, for me, is a great example of intensity,” the coach said. He particularly praised Raphinha’s ability to lead the team’s pressing: “When he does it, the rest follow him. That is a captain. He is a captain.”
Flick also had special praise for Xavi Espart, one of the most surprising selections in the starting lineup, who played at left-back in a Barça side without Balde, who was left out of the squad. The manager highlighted his versatility and his ability to understand different roles. “He can play on the right, he can play on the left. He knows what he has to do, and with the ball he is fantastic. He does everything well,” Flick said.
The night did bring one concern, however, as Gavi was forced off after taking a knock to his right knee. Flick explained that the team would have to wait for medical tests before knowing the extent of the injury. “We have to wait and see what happens with the blow he received on his right knee. But it seems he was feeling better. We will check,” he said.
His response regarding Alejandro Balde was more delicate. Flick denied telling the full-back that he needs to leave Barcelona, although he admitted that the two spoke in the morning and that, for now, he believes it is best for the player to “take some time to reflect.” “I have not told him that he has to leave,” Flick clarified. “I have the feeling, and I think it is better for him, that he takes time to think, reflect, clear things up, and then we will talk. We were both in agreement.”
Therefore, Barcelona’s 5-0 victory at Elche represents much more than just three points. Flick leaves satisfied with a goalscoring debut, a clean sheet and the response of a team that had to reinvent several positions. However, there are still several important matters waiting to be resolved.