Guadalajara manager fires cautionary message at Flick and Barcelona – ‘Don’t get too confident’ | OneFootball

CD Guadalajara’s Copa del Rey meeting with FC Barcelona has turned into one of the most anticipated nights in the club’s recent history, and manager Pere Marti has found himself firmly in the spotlight ahead of the clash. 

With his side preparing to host one of the giants of European football, the former Villarreal player has spoken openly about the emotions, tactical challenges, and admiration that surround the fixture.

In an interview with AS, Marti reflected on what it meant to see Barcelona’s name come out of the draw. 

For a club still riding the momentum of last season’s success, the tie represents more than just a football match.

“Wow. I was really excited. I’d say as excited as I was when we got promoted last year. I think this is another reward for everything we did last season.”

Facing Barcelona

Marti then shifted focus to Barcelona themselves, drawing parallels between different eras, right from Frank Rijkaard, Pep Guardiola, to Hansi Flick.

While acknowledging changes in style, he underlined that the core philosophy remains unmistakably intact under Hansi Flick.

“[There are] Many. Especially in terms of philosophy. The style varies much more, especially now that it’s more vertical. But the idea remains the same, just as clear. 

“It is incredible how they are able to carry it out. Any coach would like to do it, but the thing is, not all of us have the ability of Flick or Guardiola.”

From admiration to preparation, the Guadalajara coach offered a candid assessment of what it takes to face a team with Barcelona’s attacking power. 

Guadalajara coach has sent a warning to Hansi Flick. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Marti knows his side will need discipline, organisation, and courage if they are to remain competitive.

“I think there will be moments when we’ll have to stay very close to our goal, stay very tight and organised. 

“That’s what all teams do, but in the end, they end up getting the better of them; let’s hope they don’t have their best day against us. 

“And when we can, I’d like to press them in their half, see if they make mistakes, and we’re able to steal the ball near their goal to get closer and score a goal.”

Advice for Flick

Marti was also asked what he would say to Hansi Flick before the Barcelona coach arrived at the Pedro Escartin. His response blended respect with a subtle competitive edge.

“Don’t get too confident, although I imagine he already knows that. And I would congratulate him for having such an attractive vision of football and executing it so well. 

“I would like to be able to do that someday with that kind of confidence, so well and so quickly: last year it was ipso facto.”

Finally, speaking as a football admirer rather than a rival coach, Marti revealed which Barcelona players he would most like to have at his disposal.

“I really like Pedri. I love Cubarsí and then, of course, Lamine Yamal. 

“But there’s more: I also love Fermin, Olmo too; and Rashford, who I think has been a total success,” he said.