Flick talks Joan Garcia, Lamine, Olmo, Araujo, Eric, January transfer plans ahead of Espanyol vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick addressed the media ahead of the first official match of the year, as the Blaugrana prepare for a high-intensity Catalan derby against Espanyol. 

Speaking with calm confidence, Flick touched on a wide range of topics, from the nature of the derby to squad fitness, transfers, and his own experience at the club.

Asked how Barcelona are approaching the derby, Flick began by setting the tone and acknowledging the opposition. 

He said, “First of all, happy New Year. It’s an interesting match. I congratulate Manolo Gonzalez.

“What he has achieved is incredible. He is successful. Five wins. He is aggressive, he transitions well… and in our case, we will pay attention to these aspects. We must play at our best.”

When the discussion turned to the heated nature of the derby, Flick acknowledged Espanyol’s current momentum while stressing the need for composure.

“This year, they are confident, they are pressing well, and we will have to see what happens.

“We have to stay calm and play our best football. At the end of the day, I think we have enough quality to win there.”

On Joan Garcia’s return to Espanyol

Joan Garcia will return to Espanyol as a Barcelona player. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Flick was also asked about goalkeeper Joan Garcia, whose role has been closely watched in recent weeks. 

The German coach made it clear there are no concerns as the keeper prepares to face his former side at a very hostile venue. 

“I don’t see any difference compared to recent weeks. He is confident and believes in his strengths and qualities, which is what he wants to show tomorrow.

“Joan has performed at a high level during this last stretch here and has shown that signing him was the right decision.

“He is demonstrating his enormous quality and is our number one goalkeeper. I’m not worried at all.”

On the fitness front, Flick delivered positive news regarding Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo.

“Both are ready. Dani is back, he’s not afraid of one-on-ones. He has taken an important step forward. And Lamine is also back.”

January plans and Araujo

Flick urged patience with Araujo. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

The January transfer window was another key topic. Flick admitted reinforcement is needed but urged patience.

“That’s a difficult question. We’re not ready yet. When you look at the back line, with centre-backs and full-backs, we need one more player.

“But we have to discuss it, and it’s not difficult to sign a quality player in the winter transfer window. I’m confident we can do something, but it has to make sense.”

Regarding Ronald Araujo and his return, Flick made it clear the decision lies with the player.

“It’s up to him. He’s not 100% physically, but he’s fine. He has to decide how fast he wants to go.

“For me, it’s clear. What I see and feel is that the team’s support is fantastic. He’s taken the time he needed. He’s on the right track.”

Eric Garcia’s place

Flick was also asked about the versatility of Eric Garcia.

Eric Garcia has been fantastic for Barcelona recently. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“We’ll see if he plays in midfield. He does a fantastic job. In defence and in midfield. We will decide tomorrow.

“He, along with Cubarsi and Gerard [Martin], forms a very solid triangle, and the defensive level we’re showing has been very good.”

On derby behaviour and emotions, Flick stressed respect above all.

“I always think positively. I only have the experience of one match. We are human. Respect is the most important thing, and I hope that everyone behaves appropriately.”

Finally, reflecting on his time at Barcelona, Flick spoke with clear affection for the club.

“I think I’ve learned a lot over the last year and a half. I love the mentality in Spain and Barcelona.

“The players are incredible and the club supports us in everything we do, as does the chairman.

“Deco and Bojan too. Everything works perfectly. I love being at this club, I’m aware of what it gives me, and I will always give my best,” concluded.

Source: MARCA