For once, Hansi Flick’s press conference ahead of a Champions League match was shorter (12 questions) than that of the player (15). That is what happens when you share the press room with a global star like Lamine Yamal, who spoke ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League League Phase opener against Feyenoord this Wednesday at Spotify Camp Nou. The German coach spoke specifically about the 19-year-old winger.
“Lamine is a player who can decide games on his own. He has enormous quality and loves to improve. What I also see now is that he is enjoying his new responsibility as captain. He enjoys football, and that is important for him to be at his best,” Flick said.
Without mentioning Yamal by name, Flick also made it clear that he sees him as a logical candidate for the Ballon d’Or.
“We have many fantastic players and I would be happy if one of them won it. We’ll see. But the most important thing is their attitude and mentality on a daily basis. There are several players who could win it.”
One shared and openly stated objective for Flick and Lamine Yamal is the Champions League. The Barça coach emphasized that “it is the biggest competition and we have the capacity to win it, but it is a very long journey. All the big clubs dream of winning it, and we have to prove ourselves.”
The concept of an “obsession” with the Champions League came up twice, on one occasion with Rodri potentially being mentioned as a leader who could help calm the group. Flick avoided the idea.
“There are many experienced players. The important thing is the team. We all have to give everything and do so every day. We have four wins from four matches, and that is not easy. There are players who may not be happy with their situation, and to play you have to prove yourself. Our level of performance is the same as what I see in training. We have to keep going like this.”
He did acknowledge that the team’s strong start to the league season provides reason for optimism.
“Now it seems that everything is going well, but although I see a lot of quality and intensity, I also see that there is a commitment to an idea and communication. We have to stay together on the pitch to fight better and help each other. Everyone is here for that, and I am seeing it.”
With so much quality in the squad, many players will feel that they are not getting enough minutes. Flick is prepared for that uncomfortable situation.
“It is not easy to always maintain a good atmosphere because I have to decide who starts and who doesn’t. But that is our job. I always try to talk to the players, especially those who are not playing. You have to be positive and help each other, whether you play or not.”
The German coach made it clear that talking about the Champions League as an objective does not mean winning another La Liga title is any less important.
“Of course it has value. It is also our dream to win a third consecutive league title. We are working for that because it would be special.”
He also defended the idea that Barça are not restricted to a single style of play.
“We adapt to the opponent, not too much, but we do. It has worked very well for us over these two years. We had more difficulties against Atlético last year. We’ll see, but for now I am happy with what I see.”
Among the individual players, Flick praised Anthony Gordon.
“As a forward, he wants to score goals, create chances and provide the final pass. That is also very important. He will score goals. I am very happy with his performance in defence and in attack,” he said.
He also explained that Jesse Bisiwu would not be included in the squad.
“He is connected with us and trains with us, but he needs to play with the reserve team, so he will not be involved. He will have many opportunities to play later on,” Flick clarified.
He also provided an update on Frenkie de Jong.
“He is a great player, with great quality, and he is progressing well from his injury, working according to plan. I hope to have him back soon, perhaps after the international break.”
Finally, Flick called for support for referees when it comes to players diving.
“It is not my job to lead that. The standard of refereeing is very good in La Liga and in the Champions League, and I have nothing to say to them. It is not always easy for them. I try to remain calm with the referees and give them my support.”