Flick talks Lamine, Joan Garcia, Ter Stegen, Barcelona success – ‘I don’t make promises’ | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has added another prestigious accolade to his name after being honoured with the Coach of the Year award in Hamburg, Germany.

The German tactician, who has transformed Barça’s fortunes in just over a year, expressed gratitude during a video conference appearance at the gala.

“First of all, thank you for the trophy. It arrived four or five days ago. We have kept it well here. Of course, I am very happy to receive it as a representative of my technical team.

“It is a great award that we have received. So, thank you very much,” said Flick as he addressed the ceremony.

Reflecting on Barcelona’s success

In a little over 12 months, Flick has completely changed the atmosphere at Barcelona, as the club lifted a domestic treble – La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.

“I’m very convinced of what I can do. You have a technical team that always supports you. As a head coach, you’re on the front line.

“They criticise you, but they also praise you accordingly. These are the things that happen. But you have a coaching staff around you that does an excellent job.

“I have it here in Barcelona. It’s just a lot of fun to work with them,” he explained.

Praise for Lamine Yamal

Flick does not guarantee a starting role for Ter Stegen. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Flick’s style, based on high pressing, vertical attacking play, and faith in young talents, has quickly won over the Camp Nou crowd.

“Lamine is an absolute genius. Especially at his age, at 18, he decides the games by himself. He is on the right track. He’s also very smart.

“But of course, he is still very young, at 18, and he has to learn from others. We support it. I am convinced that he will be one of the best players the world of football has ever seen.”

Managing challenges and the Ter Stegen situation

Beyond results, Flick has had to handle sensitive matters, including the arrival of goalkeeper Joan Garcia and its impact on Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

He insisted the signing was a collective decision. “We have a very young and talented goalkeeper like Joan Garcia, who is at a very, very good level.

“We all decided together that this should be the future of Barça. So it was clear to me what our approach was.”

At the same time, he highlighted the importance of Ter Stegen’s role. “For me, it is important that Marc and the club have come closer. And that they have sought the right communication.

“For me, it’s important that Marc returns. He is a top goalkeeper and has our full support. So that he can play at his level again.”

However, when asked if he promised Ter Stegen guaranteed minutes once he recovers from his back injury, Flick was firm, concluding, “No, I don’t make promises.”

Source: SPORT