Flick hails Barcelona maestro as the ‘heart of the team’, praises key forward | OneFootball

Hansi Flick gave an interview to Barça One in which he reviewed his first season as FC Barcelona’s head coach and discussed the immediate goals for the future.

Having singled out Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez for praise, the German tactician also hailed the likes of Pedri, Raphinha, and Jules Kounde during the interview.

Pedri – The heart of the team

Pedri has been one of the most, if not the most, influential players for Barcelona this season, with his presence on the pitch making a huge difference game after game.

And Flick acknowledged that, stating that the young midfielder is the heart of this Barça side while going on to state that he can be a great leader.

“Yes, he is the heart of the team. It’s always like that: when he has the ball, it’s great to watch him,” said Flick.

“I remember, in Valencia, in the first game, when we put him on in the second half, it was totally different. He changed the game and I think it was also a great start for him and I am very happy to have him.”

Continuing, he added: “For me, he can be one of the leaders in the coming years. He is 22 years old but we will give him everything to help him get there and he can be a great leader.”

Praise for Raphinha, Kounde

Flick has helped Raphinha reach the next level. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Flick also had a lot of praise for Raphinha, who went on to describe the German tactician as the main reason he did not leave Barcelona last summer.

“We analysed every player and for me it was clear. I saw him for the first time in this stadium and I could see his dynamic, he played on the right wing and gave the final pass to Robert. I know what kind of player he is and I know he needs confidence,” said Flick.

“He is Brazilian, OK? He has quality but he also has the right heart and mentality and quality. Also in defence, he is always the player who initiates the pressure.”

Flick also highlighted Jules Kounde and his goal in the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid, saying:

“That goal showed what Jules is all about. He’s always available to play and that goal…. When I saw him with that concentration in that minute I thought: wow, he’s still attacking, he’s still pressing and he gets the ball.

“I was sure that if the ball didn’t go over, it would be a goal and it was. He was injured in the last few games, and for us, it was a blow, but we also did well.”