Flick talks Raphinha, Lamine, Bernal, Christensen, Lewandowski, Espart ahead of Osasuna vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona are steps away from lifting the La Liga title, but Hansi Flick is making sure his players do not lose focus at the final stage of the season. 

Speaking before the away game against Osasuna, the German coach made it clear that his team are not thinking about what Real Madrid do in their match against Espanyol.

Flick began by highlighting the difficulty of the Osasuna challenge and pointed out the threat they pose, especially in attack. 

He stressed that Barcelona must match their recent team performance to get the result they need.

“We always focus on the next match. We have only got this match on our minds. We will be playing against a very experienced side, with Budimir, a great striker.

“It’s going to be tough. The atmosphere there is fantastic. We’ll have to play at the same level as we did against Getafe. 

“We played very well as a unit, we attacked well. I don’t want to focus on other matches.”

When asked directly whether Barcelona could already be crowned champions depending on other results, Flick avoided looking too far ahead and kept his answer short and clear.

“I’m just focusing on this match. Nothing else.”

Raphinha’s return

Raphinha is back fit. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The Barcelona manager also spoke about the return of Raphinha, who has had a challenging season but is now back with the squad. 

Flick praised his attitude and explained why his return is important for the team at this stage.

“Rapha is one of those players who always gives 100%. His mindset and attitude are always the same; he always gives his all. He’s had a tough time this season.

“But for us, it’s important that he’s back. He’ll be travelling with us; we’ll see what happens tomorrow. But for us, it’s fantastic that he’s back.”

On the topic of Barcelona’s level compared to Europe’s top clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, Flick showed full belief in his squad’s ability to compete at the highest level.

“100%, for sure. Yes.”

Update on Lamine, Bernal and Christensen

There was also an update on Lamine Yamal, with Flick explaining the current situation around his recovery and coordination with medical staff.

“We’re in touch with the national team doctors. It’s important that Lamine is too. Lamine is making good progress. 

“I think we’ll have him for the World Cup. He has time to recover and that’s what he wants.”

Providing team news, Flick gave brief updates on Andreas Christensen and Marc Bernal and their availability.

“With Andreas, we’ll take it step by step. Bernal will be joining us tomorrow.”

Flick then spoke about the team’s mindset for the rest of the season, making it clear that the goal is to win every remaining match rather than focus on records or points totals.

“We’re focusing on the next match. Obviously, we want to win every remaining match until the end. 

“I’m not very good with numbers, but it would be perfect to win all our remaining matches. 

“I’m very happy with what I’m seeing. There’s a positive atmosphere in training and the players are fully focused.”

On Xavi Espart and Lewandowski

Lewandowski’s future is uncertain at Barcelona (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

He also addressed the progress of young player Xavi Espart, suggesting that the youngster is in his plans going forward.

“Of course. He’s doing well; I like what I see from him. That’s how we want to manage the situation with him. For next year, he’s a very good option.”

On Robert Lewandowski’s future, Flick confirmed that discussions have taken place but insisted that the focus remains on finishing the season strongly.

“We’ve spoken, but that’s something between the two of us. We’re focusing on the five remaining matches. Once we’re done, we’ll talk and see what happens.”

Finally, when reflecting on the possibility of consecutive La Liga titles, Flick remained humble and focused on the collective effort behind the team’s success.

“People thank me for it every day and it’s fantastic; I’m really grateful. It’s an honour for me. 

“But when you manage a club like Barça, it’s all about winning trophies, and my staff and I had that goal in mind. We have a fantastic atmosphere at this club, including in the dressing room. 

“To win trophies, you need the best team. For me, what matters is how we all manage things, how we play… That’s what counts,” he concluded.

Source: AS