Flick talks Cubarsi, Yamal, Olmo, Inigo, Lewandowski, de Jong ahead of Real Sociedad vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona’s manager, Hansi Flick, has given an encouraging update, confirming that young defender Pau Cubarsi will be part of the travelling squad for the match against Real Sociedad on Sunday.

Flick shared his thoughts during a recent press briefing, where he covered a range of topics, including the fitness status of Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo.

“I think Pau will be there, he trained with us throughout the session. Lamine has done specific strength work, he has played a lot and we’ll see how he is tomorrow,” he began saying.

According to Flick, Yamal has been involved in specific strength training sessions due to his frequent play, and the staff is closely monitoring his condition. Meanwhile, Dani Olmo had felt unwell but was reported to be improving, with hopes he would be fit for the match.

“He has played a lot and we have to take care of him. Dani Olmo felt a little bad, and uncomfortable during the night. This morning he was a little better, they are treating him and we’ll see although I think he will be ready tomorrow.”

Barcelona’s momentum and winning streak

Hansi Flick says Pau Cubarsi will be available for tomorrow’s game. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)

When asked about Barcelona’s recent winning streak, Flick emphasised the team’s goal of winning every game.

He expressed admiration for Real Sociedad’s style of play, describing them as a technical and intelligent team, which he believes will make the match particularly engaging.

“We want to win every game. Now we play against Real Sociedad and I really like the way they play. They are a technical and very intelligent team. It will be an interesting game tomorrow.”

Flick also discussed the importance of resting his players, explaining that while training is essential, it is sometimes beneficial to allow the team a chance to recover and relax, especially after intense matches.

“We spoke to the coaching staff and we checked how the players were doing. We always like to train, but the second training session after the match is not that intense and it’s good that they can relax a bit,” he noted.

Barcelona’s dominance and Real Sociedad

Flick admits he is proud of his team. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Reflecting on Barcelona’s recent performances, Flick highlighted his pride in the team’s collective effort, especially their ability to finish games as a unit.

He noted that in their last game against Red Star, the team showcased strong coordination and teamwork.

“There are many things I’m proud of. I always look at the last game and against Red Star we saw that we finished together.”

Flick contrasted this with the game against Espanyol, where he felt the team’s second-half performance lacked the same unity. However, he was pleased to see a return to form, with the players defending and attacking cohesively.

“Against Espanyol, the second half wasn’t good because we didn’t finish as a team. The team plays as a group and it’s usually easier to play like that.”

Addressing the importance of the game against Real Sociedad, Flick pointed out that, like every other match, it holds three valuable points.

He acknowledged that winning won’t be straightforward and stressed the need for sustained teamwork over the full 90 minutes.

“It would simply be one more match. There are 3 points at stake, it’s our goal but it won’t be easy. We have to work more than 90 minutes together as a team.”

Inigo Martinez and Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski and Inigo Martinez have been crucial. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Flick also touched on Inigo Martinez’s performance and contract situation. He praised Martinez’s role as a leader in a predominantly young squad, noting his positive influence in training sessions.

“His performance, he’s great and he’s really a leader. We have a very young team and it’s important to have experienced players. In training he usually wins every game, it’s very good to see that.”

While Flick has no direct involvement in contract negotiations, he expressed confidence that Martinez’s excellent performance makes a contract renewal a natural next step.

“The contract is not my job, mine is to improve the players. If it works, it would be normal for the contract to be renewed. Incredible performance,” he said.

Regarding Robert Lewandowski, Flick confirmed the striker’s strong fitness levels and ruled out the need for rest. He particularly praised Lewandowski’s defensive contributions, which have added to his overall impact on the team.

“For me, he is 100% fit, in very good shape and does not need rest. What impresses me is his performance in defence. I am not considering giving him a rest.”

On team punctuality, Flick was clear about his expectations, citing it as a matter of respect. Late arrivals disrupt the group and undermine respect for each other, which he considers essential in a high-performing team.

“It’s a rule. I don’t talk about the past, but it’s a matter of respect. If you arrive five minutes late, the others have to wait for you and that’s not respect.”

Frenkie de Jong and Henry’s comments

Frenkie de Jong may play full 90 minutes tomorrow. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

When asked about Frenkie de Jong’s playing time, Flick shared that they are working on getting him fully fit to play the entire 90 minutes, with efforts ongoing to extend his match endurance.

“We have tried to get him to play 90 minutes. And we’ll try it more, we’ll try.”

Commenting on Thierry Henry’s remarks about Xavi, Flick respectfully acknowledged Xavi’s role and influence, especially his focus on giving young players a chance.

“It’s not fair to compare my work with Xavi’s. I have the utmost respect for him because he was a player and a coach.”

Flick sees his own role as an extension of this legacy, nurturing young talent and building on the foundations laid by Xavi.

“He gave young players a chance and we have to give him credit for that. I’m continuing along this line,” concluded the manager.

Source: SPORT