Hansi Flick talks Bernal, Pedri, Araujo after Newcastle United 1-1 Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick faced the media after his side secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Newcastle United in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie.

Barcelona travelled to England knowing it would be a difficult night. Newcastle’s intense pressing and fast transitions created several problems, especially during the first half. 

The Catalan side also had to deal with several squad issues, with key players either returning from injury or still working their way back to full fitness.

Despite the challenges, Barcelona managed to recover after falling behind and left St James’ Park with a draw that keeps the tie wide open ahead of the second leg.

After the match, Flick openly admitted that his team struggled with possession but was pleased with their defensive discipline.

“We didn’t play well with the ball, we lost possession too often, which is what Newcastle want. We knew that when they pass the ball, they are very quick. 

“It wasn’t easy, but I’m very happy with my team, especially the defence; we defended very well on the pitch,” he analysed.

Managing the injuries

Pedri was substituted after the hour’s mark. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Barcelona have played a demanding schedule in recent weeks, competing both in La Liga and in Europe. Flick was asked whether fatigue may have played a role in the team’s performance.

Flick acknowledged the heavy workload while also pointing to the absence of some players.

“We’ve had a lot of games recently, and we’ve had players out injured. Bernal and Pedri haven’t been playing.

“We need to improve, that’s clear, but the positive thing for us is the result. After going 1-0 down, it was fantastic to come back and get a draw.”

Even though the performance with the ball was not at Barcelona’s usual level, Flick remains confident that the team will show a different side when the tie returns to Spain.

“We’ll see a different Barça in the second leg.”

The Barcelona coach was also asked whether the result should be seen as positive, considering the number of players returning from injury.

“Before the match, I wouldn’t have thought it was a bad result. There are no excuses. 

“We didn’t want to take any risks with Eric because he’s an important player for us. Araujo did well and when Xavi Espart came on, he did too,” he said.

Careful management

Several players are still working their way back after long injury breaks. 

Marc Bernal was taken off injured. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Flick explained that the coaching staff is taking a careful approach with them as they rebuild match fitness.

“It was an intense match. Bernal and Araujo are coming off long periods without playing. We have to take it step by step, it’s not easy. 

“They will improve. It’s not easy to play against this team. And I think we played well defensively. We have to grow because we have great potential.”

One tactical decision that caught attention during the match was the use of Ronald Araujo in a full-back role rather than his usual centre-back position.

Flick explained that the choice was made to maintain stability in the defensive line.

“I didn’t want to change too much in defence and Araujo looked good playing there.”

Meanwhile, Pedri was substituted after playing just over an hour, a move that Flick later clarified was part of managing the midfielder’s workload.

“We have to manage his minutes and be careful. We’ve had too many injuries and Pedri is coming back. 

“Pedri has good control of the ball, but he played 65 minutes. We believe in our players, and they can all play.”

Looking ahead

Looking ahead, the Barcelona coach made it clear that the team will now focus on recovery and preparation before the decisive second leg.

“Now, it’s time to rest. We’ll have a few days to prepare well for the upcoming matches. 

“When you play at this level, in the Champions League and LaLiga, it’s normal to have moments like this. We have to adapt to this level,” he concluded.

Source: AS