Flick talks Pedri, Lewandowski, De Jong, Casado, Raphinha, FIFA best XI ahead of Villarreal vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick faced the media ahead of what will be his side’s final match of 2025, a demanding away fixture against Villarreal. 

With injuries, selection questions, and even global awards on the agenda, Flick delivered a press conference that was calm in tone but firm in message.

The German coach began by addressing the challenge posed by Villarreal, making it clear that he holds them in very high regard. 

“We’re playing against a great team with a lot of quality and many talented players. I love watching them play. Their coach is incredible and they’re doing very well.”

Flick then expanded on the mindset for the game, acknowledging the motivation Villarreal will bring against Barcelona.

“We know how difficult it is to play against this team. For them, it’s the game of the year to show everything they’ve got.”

Update on Pedri and Lewandowski

Pedri will miss the Villarreal game. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

One of the key talking points was the absence of Pedri. Flick confirmed that the midfielder will not be available, reinforcing that the decision is purely precautionary.

“Pedri is not available. That’s part of football. He’s injured and we hope he’ll be ready for the next game.”

Looking further ahead, Flick was asked whether Pedri could return in time for the Catalan derby against Espanyol next year. 

“Let’s hope he’s ready for Espanyol. The risk is very high. He could play, but the risk is very high.”

On the topic of logistics, Flick was also questioned about playing the match in Villarreal rather than abroad, an idea that has been floated in recent months.

“I haven’t thought about it. I’m happy to play in Villarreal. It’s La Liga’s decision and I accept it.”

There was better news regarding Robert Lewandowski, with Flick confirming the striker is fit and ready.

“Lewandowski is ready to play. He’s doing very well. We’re not taking any risks in Copa del Rey. He can play, and that’s good news.”

On his renewal and De Jong

Questions then turned to Flick’s own future at the club. Asked about a possible renewal until 2028, the coach offered an honest and measured reply.

“A year for a coach in Barcelona is a long time. We feel confident, which is good to see.

“For me, it’s great to stay for another year, but it also depends on the president. That’s all I can say. I love working at this club.”

Midfield balance was another theme, particularly the role of Frenkie de Jong.

“For me, it’s good to have control and stability in the team. Eric played at number 6, Frenkie understands that, but he wants to play.

“It’s good to have players who raise the level of quality. You have to have quality and competition.”

On Casado and Raphinha

Flick spoke in favour of Raphinha. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Flick also gave his assessment of Marc Casado, praising his versatility while acknowledging the reality of competition at Barça.

“He can play as a full-back, but for me he’s more of a ‘6’ or ‘8’. It’s important to have players who can play in this position.

“Maybe he’s not so happy with the minutes he’s getting, but this is Barça.”

Finally, Flick himself raised an unexpected topic – FIFA’s Best Men’s XI for 2025.

Clearly frustrated by the omission of Raphinha, the Barcelona coach did not hold back.

“There’s something I wanted to comment on. FIFA’s Best XI is a joke. It’s unbelievable that Raphinha isn’t in it. 

“His influence was incredible. He was the top scorer in the Champions League. It’s unbelievable.

“And the most important thing is his influence. It’s a joke. I can’t believe he’s not in it. After this season, he deserved it. It’s unbelievable,” he concluded.

Source: AS