Flick talks Rashford, Raphinha, Araujo, Kounde, Lamine, Real Madrid ahead of Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick faced the media on the eve of a massive Copa del Rey semi-final clash against Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano. 

The Blaugrana travel as defending champions, but the challenge ahead is clear, with Diego Simeone’s side known for their intensity and organisation in knockout ties.

Flick began by confirming that Marcus Rashford will not be part of the squad for the first leg, dealing a blow to Barcelona’s attacking options. 

Speaking about the English forward’s condition, the manager said, 

“Rashford isn’t ready. He took a knock. It’s not good news, but I believe in my team. The situation isn’t easy. We’re playing against a fantastic team.

“I saw the cup game against Betis, and it was impressive. Cholo [Diego Simeone] is doing a great job at Atletico. I really appreciate what I saw. It’ll be a tough game tomorrow.”

Raphinha out too

The German coach also revealed that Raphinha is unlikely to feature, stressing the need to protect the Brazilian from further issues. 

Raphinha and Rashford will miss this match. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Providing an update on the winger, Flick explained, “Step by step. We have to take care of him. He’s a player who gives his all with great intensity. 

“If he feels something, we have to be careful. That’s the situation. I’m not happy because we need him, just like Pedri, Gavi, Andreas, and Marcus.

“He’s feeling something in his muscles and we have to take care of his body. We have to support him and keep an eye on him.”

Looking ahead to the two-legged tie, Flick emphasised the importance of managing the full 180 minutes rather than just the first leg in Madrid. 

“These two games will decide who goes through to the final. That’s the goal for both teams. Last season was tough. We played at home first. 

“It’s two games, 180 minutes, and we’re ready to go to the final.”

With both Rashford and Raphinha unavailable, questions were raised about the left-wing position. 

Flick kept his cards close to his chest, saying, “We have a very clear idea of who will play and who is doing well.”

On Atletico and Real Madrid

When asked about the difficulty of playing Atletico away, the Barcelona boss insisted his focus remains only on the upcoming match. 

He responded, “I’m just focusing on the game against Atlético, I don’t like to look at other things. Statistics are fine for you guys, but I don’t think about them. 

“Atletico deserves respect because they’re a fantastic team, coach and club. We like to test ourselves against these opponents.”

The coach also made headlines when he was asked about Barcelona’s route to the semi-final. 

He chose to reference Real Madrid’s shock defeat to Albacete, simply stating, “Ask Real Madrid,” in response to suggestions that Barcelona had an easier path.

He later clarified his remarks, stressing the need to respect lower-division sides. Flick said, 

“It doesn’t help me to talk about Real Madrid. I thought it was the right response because we have to respect the Second and Third Division teams in the Cup, who have had a fantastic Cup run.

“It’s about respecting your opponents. The other teams have qualified, they have the quality and they have shown that they can beat First Division teams.

“That’s all there is to it. I just have to focus on my club, my team, my fans, and that’s all I’m interested in. The rest is just a waste of energy.”

On Araujo and Kounde

Flick shared his thoughts on Araujo’s situation. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The manager also spoke about Ronald Araujo, highlighting the defender’s mental strength after opening up about his struggles. 

Flick explained, “We know the situation with Ronald. He has opened up, and we have supported him as much as we can.

“Opening up like that means you are strong. In football, it’s all about mentality and focusing on winning. Someday I’ll talk about everything. 

“When he says he was like that for a year and a half, it’s important to take care of the players.

“You have to think about it. As a coach, you have to take responsibility for all the players. You have to think about more than just what’s good for you.”

On Jules Kounde, Flick praised the defender’s mentality and fighting spirit. He said,

“Jules is a fighter. We’re human and maybe you can’t have the best day, but he’s always fighting. Even when he doesn’t start well.

“I appreciate what he’s doing. He has a top mentality. Tomorrow he’ll prove it. It will be a difficult game for everyone. I like what I see from Atlético, with a clear philosophy.”

Praise for Lamine Yamal

Finally, the German coach reserved special praise for teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who continues to grow in importance for the team. Flick noted, 

“I’m very happy with everything I see from him. On the pitch, he’s always capable of deciding games in the right direction. 

He’s a great player and has everything we like in football: dribbling, one-on-one.

“He’s very good to watch. I’m very happy with what I see. In training, he always wants to improve, and that’s good. 

“He has to improve, and he can improve a lot in the coming years,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo