Flick talks Pena, Lewandowski, de Jong, Fermin, Olmo, Ancelotti after Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona | OneFootball

Hansi Flick’s approach to Barcelona’s 4-0 victory over Real Madrid was a balanced mix of joy and restraint. While clearly pleased with the team’s performance, he kept his post-match statements modest.

Flick shared his perspective on the team’s journey, noting that they are simply focused on improving with each game. His satisfaction was evident, yet he remained cautious, focusing on the need to stay on course and keep up the solid defensive work.

“We started the journey, we prepare for each game and we love to do things well. It was not easy, but we have to continue on the path. We defended well and we did a good job,” he began by saying.

Understanding the change

Frenkie de Jong replaced Fermin Lopez. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

At halftime, Flick made specific tactical adjustments, bringing Frenkie de Jong in place of Fermin Lopez.

Flick highlighted how vital it was for Barcelona to play skillfully both with and without possession.

“We made a change, we focused on defending well and putting pressure on the ball. It was important to play well with the ball and also without the ball. The key is that in the second half, we dominated the ball better.”

Despite his clear happiness with the team’s progress, Flick avoided any overt celebrations. He reflected on the joy of working at Barça and living in Barcelona, describing it as a new chapter in his life.

“Have I been the happiest week? As I always say, I am happy to work at Barça and live in Barcelona. It is a new part of my life. We played a great game, everyone gave 100%,” he noted

Thoughts on Inaki Pena

Inaki Pena made crucial saves. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Flick also emphasized the team’s hard work, particularly the efforts of Inaki Pena, who impressed him significantly. Flick also underscored the importance of keeping a clean sheet, celebrating the team’s success in defending against strong opposition.

“I am very happy for Inaki. It was necessary to highlight it. Keeping a clean sheet is very important. He played a fantastic game.”

The manager commended the unity between the fans and the team, appreciating the solid connections developing within the club.

“They celebrated in the dressing room and that is good, there is more confidence now than there was before.”

Lewandowski’s performance

Robert Lewandowski scored a brace against Real Madrid. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

While he refrained from singling out any specific player for praise, he credited the collective atmosphere and team spirit.

When asked about Lewandowski, Flick mentioned the importance of fostering an environment where every player can showcase their strengths.

“We have to build an atmosphere in which the players can show their quality.  The atmosphere in the club and in the team is very good,” he said.

To reward the team’s efforts, he granted them two days off after recovery, before they gear up for the next match against Espanyol.

“We can celebrate this victory, I’m giving them two days off after tomorrow’s recovery (Sunday). We can celebrate, but now we have to focus on the next match against Espanyol.”

Players returning

Hansi Flick is happy to have his players back. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Flick expressed gratitude for having key players like Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi back in action. He also noted Fermin’s readiness, emphasizing how having a full squad at 100% is advantageous for him as a coach.

“It’s great to have Dani, Frenkie and Gavi back, but it’s important for all the players. Fermin is also fine, it’s good to have everyone at 100%, good for the coach.”

On the system’s risks, he acknowledged that each game presents unique challenges but praised the defensive line for its impressive performance.

“Each game is different, you have to do the job well. The four behind have been very good.”

Lastly, regarding a brief interaction with Carlo Ancelotti, Flick brushed it off as a normal part of the game.

He mentioned having a brief exchange with Ancelotti after the goal celebration, noting that they are both experienced enough to handle such situations professionally.

“I haven’t seen it. I’ve spoken to him, but it’s a normal situation. We celebrated the goal. We’re adults enough to talk about them,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo