Flick talks Dro, Raphinha, Ter Stegen, Rashford, Bernal ahead of Real Sociedad vs Barcelona | OneFootball

FC Barcelona will be aiming to make it 12 wins in a row when they take on Real Sociedad in La Liga on Sunday, away at Anoeta.

The Blaugrana have been unstoppable since their UCL loss to Chelsea in November, securing 11 wins in a row, while lifting the first trophy of the season in the form of the Spanish Super Cup.

Now, the focus will shift back to the league, with the aim of consolidating their position at the top of the league table.

Ahead of the visit to the Basque country, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed the media in his pre-match press conference, discussing various matters, including the imminent exit of Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernandez.

“They have more confidence after two wins and a draw. I know the German coach, and he has given them more confidence. We’re back in the league, and we want to win,” said Flick, talking about the game against Real Sociedad.

On being asked about Dro’s imminent move to PSG, Flick stated: “I’ll speak when it’s done. Not before.”

When further probed on the matter, he added: “I don’t want to answer because as a coach I put a lot of energy into helping the players improve, but there are many people around the players. If (Dro) ends up going to another club, ask me and I’ll talk, but not now.”

When asked if Dro’s exit meant Marc Bernal and Marc Casado will remain at the club in the January window, the manager remarked:

“I don’t know. My idea is for everyone to stay. Dro’s situation isn’t finalised yet, but it’s football. These are players who are 17 or 18 years old, but there are people around them who make decisions. But I don’t want to say anything more.”

Commenting on Bernal’s situation and whether he will stay amid rumours of a possible loan exit, the Barcelona head coach noted:

“I hope he stays. My opinion is clear, but in football, you never know what can happen. He’s coming back from an injury, he’s improving and getting back into shape. He has a lot of potential, and we want to help him reach that potential.”

On whether he had any message to La Masia players coming through amidst all this, Flick said: “My message is about daily training. When players arrive with potential, we have a plan to monitor their training, performance, and attitude, to see if they’re professional…

“We’re a big team, and it’s not easy to get playing time. That’s clear. But every training session makes these players better. This is the normal process, and when they deserve to play, then of course they play.”

Flick also elaborated on the situation of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, confirming that he will be available for tomorrow’s match amid talks of a loan move to Girona.

“I don’t have any more information. As far as I’m concerned, he’s in the team tomorrow,” he said.

Discussing the conversations he has had with the club captain over his situation, Flick noted: “It’s his decision and what he wants for the future. Of course, we’ve talked in recent days and weeks, but this is Deco’s job and we have to prepare for tomorrow’s game.

“Meanwhile, Marc is a Barça player, captain, and has been very important for the last 10 years, but we will respect his decision and whatever he wants.”

Set to leave Barcelona. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Flick also briefly discussed the future of Marcus Rashford, amid rumours of Barcelona wanting to sign him permanently, as he said:

“His performances have been good so far, but it’s something we need to manage with Deco and the club. We still have plenty of time, months ahead. Marcus is a top player, and we appreciate his situation. We are Barça, and we are one of the best in the world.

“It’s like what I say about the players from La Masia. We give them the opportunity to play and trust them. If you want to play for Barça, we’ll be 100% behind you. That’s what I want to see from other players.”

Regarding the rotation between Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski in the No. 9 role, he stated:

“When everyone scores, it’s a good situation. I’m happy. In every position, we have players who can come on or finish the game. That’s what I want in my team.

“It’s very important for the team, and it helps us win matches. The most important thing for me is the team, not the players or the coaches.”

The manager also provided an update on the condition of Raphinha, who did not train with the group today, saying:

“Yes, he’s having problems after a knock, and we’ll see what we decide and whether he plays or rests tomorrow.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo