Flick talks Cubarsi, Joan Garcia, Ter Stegen, Camp Nou, Real Madrid ahead of Barcelona vs Eintract Frankfurt | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed the media ahead of his team’s decisive UEFA Champions League meeting with Eintracht Frankfurt at the Spotify Camp Nou. 

With the Champions League returning to the stadium for the first time since renovation works began, it promises to be a significant night for players, staff, and supporters alike.

Flick opened by stressing how different the Champions League stage feels compared to domestic competition.

He warned that past performances mean nothing in knockout-style football.

“The Champions League is different. Everything that’s happened up until now doesn’t matter. Eintracht has a good, young, fast, and intense team. 

“They can adapt to the system, and we’ll have to show our best. It will be difficult because they can hurt us a lot, even though their last few matches haven’t been good.”

Praining the defence

Hansi Flick praised Pau Cubarsi. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The Barça coach then reflected on the team’s development over the last few months, a period hit hard by injuries and forced rotation.

“Everyone knows what we’ve been through these last three months, with injured players, and we had to manage playing time. We only have six players in defence. 

“In the final minutes, fatigue sets in, and it’s not always easy to maintain a high level.”

Turning to the improvement shown by younger players, Flick proudly referenced Pau Cubarsi’s extraordinary numbers at Betis.

“They played at a different level than a month ago. Cubarsí is only 18 years old, and we sometimes forget that. 

“Cubarsi completed 87 passes with 100% accuracy against Betis. I think that’s a La Liga record.”

On Real Madrid’s form

As expected, Flick was asked about Real Madrid’s slump following their recent defeat, but he quickly shut down comparisons.Before the quote: He insisted Barcelona must maintain internal focus.

He replied: “We’re focused on ourselves, not on Real Madrid. We don’t want to talk about them. 

“We’re four points ahead, but it’s a long season. We have to give our best. Right now, the most important match is tomorrow’s against Eintracht.”

The conversation then shifted to goalkeeper availability, with Marc-André ter Stegen still working toward full fitness.

On whether Ter Stegen could be cleared, he said, “If possible”.

On conversations regarding the World Cup, he noted, “I always talk to Marc, but not to Nagelsmann.”

Despite this uncertainty, Flick made one stance absolutely clear.Before the quote: He reaffirmed the hierarchy in the goalkeeping department.

“Joan Garcia is number one, that’s clear.”

Camp Nour return

Spotify Camp Nou will host the Champions League night. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Discussing the return of Champions League football to the Camp Nou, Flick highlighted the emotional weight of the moment. He said the team wants to make the night memorable.

“It was a dream for everyone to return to the Spotify Camp Nou. It will also be important in the Champions League. 

“Tomorrow is an important day and we want to show our best level.”

He also spoke at length about Gerard Martin’s contribution and versatility. Flick praised the defender’s mentality and technical value.

“Sometimes it’s good to have players who like to work hard. They have the right attitude and mentality. They give their all on the pitch. Gerard always tries to do his best for the club. 

“It’s a dream of his to play for Barça, and we can see that. He has confidence in what he can do. He’s very good for us. 

“In this position, a left-footed player gives us more options with the ball. He’s doing very well.”

Asked whether he watched Real Madrid’s latest defeat, Flick dismissed the subject with humour.

“It’s the same as the previous match. I was in bed and I got a message. We want to focus on ourselves. I don’t want to waste energy; I want to save it for our team,” he noted.

Source: Mundo Deportivo