Flick talks Lewandowski, De Jong, Rashford, Christensen, Szczesny, Joan Garcia ahead of Barcelona vs Real Betis | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed the media ahead of his side’s clash against Real Betis in what will be Barcelona’s final home game of the 2025/26 La Liga campaign.

While the match itself remains important for the Catalan side, much of the focus during the press conference centred around Robert Lewandowski after the veteran striker confirmed that he will leave Barcelona at the end of the season.

Flick made it clear that Barcelona still want to finish strongly at home despite the emotional backdrop surrounding the occasion. 

“It’s always important to have goals, and one of them is to win every home game. 

“We’re up against a very strong side that has been consistent in recent seasons and boasts players of great individual quality.

“It won’t be an easy match, but we want to end the season at the Camp Nou with a win”

Special farewell plans for Lewandowski

The Barcelona coach also confirmed that Lewandowski will start the match as part of his farewell appearance at the Camp Nou.

Lewandowski will leave Barcelona at the end of the season. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

While discussing the striker’s departure and Barcelona’s plans moving forward, Flick stated:

“Robert deserves a special send-off and will start tomorrow; he’s earned it. We have time to work on how to cover his departure, and there will be a time to look at the transfer market. 

“As for next season, we still don’t know what will happen, but we’re considering various options.”

The German manager then reflected emotionally on the relationship he has shared with Lewandowski over the years and revealed that the striker has already privately said goodbye to the dressing room.

“We’ve spoken about it and he’s already said his goodbyes to the team. It’s been a very important spell for him at Barcelona. 

“I’ve been working with Robert for four years; we’ve won nine titles together and it’s been a privilege to share this journey. 

“He’s a great professional, always striving to perform at the highest level, and he’s also been a role model for the younger players. Now we’ll have to start rebuilding the team.”

Flick continued by highlighting the impact Lewandowski has had beyond goals and performances.

“He’s an example to us all. He’s always given his all, and it’s been a privilege to work with him and see the effort he puts in every day. 

“What’s more, he’s always been there during the toughest times.”

The Barcelona coach also briefly addressed possible exits during the summer transfer window, stating,

“I don’t think there will be any more departures, although in football you can never rule anything out.”

About the match

Frenkie de Jong will be unavailable tomorrow. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Furthermore, the German manager also confirmed that there will be changes to the lineup against Betis while providing updates on several players.

“Tomorrow we will see a different team from the one that played in Vitoria. 

“Frenkie won’t be available because he’s not feeling well and that’s already been decided. 

“As for Rashford, we still have to wait and see, although there’s a chance he might be with us.”

Flick additionally revealed that Andreas Christensen could receive minutes during the match.

“The plan is for him to get a few minutes tomorrow. We assessed him in the last match, although you always have to manage each game as it unfolds.”

The goalkeeping situation

Finally, the Barcelona manager clarified the goalkeeping situation and explained why Joan Garcia will start.

“The decision has nothing to do with the Zamora Trophy. 

“The important thing is to manage Joan’s playing time. Szczesny deserved to play the last match and tomorrow it will be Joan Garcia’s turn.”

Source: AS