Hansi Flick talks Laporta, Yamal, Ferran, Lewandowski, Woltemade ahead of Barcelona vs Newcastle United | OneFootball

FC Barcelona were able to salvage only a draw in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie against Newcastle United a week ago, and have much work to do to ensure their presence in the next round of the competition.

The Blaugranes will be facing the English side in the second leg of the round tonight at the Spotify Camp Nou, and ahead of this game, Hansi Flick held his customary press conference yesterday.

As Mundo Deportivo has reported, the German coach talked about different aspects of his team and the upcoming game in this presser.

The Barcelona coach started by speaking highly of Newcastle United and their style of play:

“They pressed very high and defended very well in the final third. It will be a tough match. Physically, they are strong, and in transition, they are fast. We have to play a perfect match, and that’s what we will try to do.”

Joan Laporta recently hinted at a renewal for Flick, but the coach was not too keen to talk about this matter in this presser:

“I think it’s not the right moment. We have a very important match. Everyone knows that I’m very happy here, but I have to talk with my family. There will be time to talk; now is not the moment.”

When asked about Laporta’s visit to the team, the German coach replied:

“It’s important to have a structure. We have a good structure that gives us stability. Everyone was happy about the visit, and it gave us luck.”

The Barcelona coach also commented on Laporta’s letter:

“It said many things about Barça. It highlighted Cruyff, who is the man who created the new Barça, but also the philosophy and the style. It’s not only how you win, but it’s also how you do it. You have to have team spirit, that is the most important thing.”

Flick was confident that his team has what it takes to win the UCL, but still wanted improvements:

“This is football, and many things can change. We have to stay positive because there is great quality in the squad. We will see if we are capable of winning the Champions League, but we have to improve.”

The German coach highlighted what his team needs to have to win against Newcastle United:

“We have talked about it. We have to play with confidence, and that is important for us. If they play one-on-one, we will have to find the spaces.”

The Barcelona coach ensured that Lamine Yamal was training well ahead of this game:

“Lamine is a player who can make the difference. Yesterday he trained fantastically. The Champions League is the best competition in the world, and everyone wants to play in it. It’s extra motivation for every player.”

Hansi Flick made it clear that this is going to be his last job as a football manager:

“It’s clear that I love working here. The most important thing, what I feel, is that I have a big family. Here I have the support of Barcelona, but this is football. I’m here to help reach the best level, but there is still time. I’m not thinking about going somewhere else. This will be my last club, my last job, and I’m delighted.”

The German coach wanted both his center-forwards to be in form for the end of the season:

“It could be an option. In matches like these, all the players are motivated. We need Ferran and Lewy at their best level until the end of the season to achieve our objectives. It’s crucial for us.”

The Barcelona coach explained why he does not watch penalties being taken:

“I never watch them, and it works for me. I can see the replay on the iPad. They say it’s OCD, but that’s how I am. I don’t like watching how penalties are taken. It’s a fantastic feeling when the fans shout.”

The German trainer was also asked about Nick Woltemade, who is likely to play against his side tonight:

Hopefully, Hansi Flick will be able to guide his Barcelona team to a win to ensure a place for them in the quarter-finals of the UCL.