Hansi Flick talks Lamine, Olmo, Eric, Casado, Cancelo after Barcelona 3-0 Oviedo | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick faced the media after his side secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Real Oviedo, a result that saw the Blaugrana reclaim top spot in the La Liga standings. 

Goals from Dani Olmo, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal sealed the win at Camp Nou, but Flick was keen to highlight that the match was not as straightforward as the scoreline suggested.

Explaining why his team struggled early on, Flick said, “Oviedo had nothing to lose, and that’s part of football.” 

He then gave more detail on what went wrong before the break, adding, “They pressed high up the pitch, and we didn’t play well in the first half. 

“But we improved in the second half and were able to press. That’s what I want to see from the team: intensity and pressure.” 

On Lamine Yamal’s performance

When asked about Lamine Yamal’s goal, Flick downplayed the moment of brilliance and instead focused on the team effort that set the tone. 

Lamine Yamal scored a fantastic goal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Reflecting on the question, he said, “That’s a difficult question. For me, the most important thing was the first goal, how we pressed. 

“The first goal was more important than the third, but obviously, we all loved seeing that goal.” 

There were also questions about Yamal’s physical condition after his recent workload. Flick offered reassurance, stating, 

“Of course. He had more space and more potential in the second half. He did the right thing when he had to. We’re happy.”

On Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo

Flick was equally positive when discussing Eric Garcia, who impressed in multiple roles. Highlighting his importance, the coach said, 

“You saw it too. He played on the right, then at centre-back. He gives us stability and is growing as a leader. 

“He likes this role. He has grown up here, at La Masia. It’s great to see his versatility, his quality. He’s incredible.”

On Dani Olmo’s form, Flick stressed patience and collective growth. He explained, 

“It’s the same as with the rest of the players. In the second half, everyone improved their level. 

“He has improved a lot in the last three games. He can score, make the final pass, control the ball. That’s why he plays for Barcelona.”

On Casado and Cancelo

Marc Casado started against Oviedo. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Questions also turned to Marc Casado, with Flick firmly rejecting any exit talk. He was clear, saying, 

“For me, there’s no question of him leaving. We need everyone. Marc is a super professional player. 

“He deserved to play today. He’s worked hard. I liked what I saw. That’s the Casado we want to see.”

Finally, Flick spoke about the new signing, Joao Cancelo, and his adaptation to life at Barcelona. Offering his view, he said, 

“He’s just arrived, but we can already see his quality in training. He has to adapt to our game and our philosophy. 

“He can improve. Today I also wanted to give Balde a rest. Yes, I consider the transfer market closed.”

Source: AS