Hansi Flick talks Szczesny, Fermin, Kounde ahead of Barcelona vs Inter Milan | OneFootball

Following a 3-2 win over Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday, FC Barcelona are now set to host Inter Milan as the two sides face off in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final tie on Wednesday.

It goes without saying that this is one of the most important games for both teams, as they have made it to the penultimate stage of the competition, and both would be keen to avoid a failure at this stage, being so close to the final.

Hansi Flick addressed his customary press conference ahead of this game and talked about different aspects of his team’s performance and the game ahead.

The main highlights from this presser have been reported by Mundo Deportivo, and are as follows:

The German coach started by praising his opponents in the upcoming game, Inter Milan:

“We’re only focused on the first leg, and it’s the first part of the objective. Inter will be very tough — they are one of the best defensive teams in Europe. They have a great midfield and excellent wing-backs. We have to be ready.”

Hansi Flick went on to ensure that despite the demanding match against Real Madrid, his team is ready for this upcoming challenge:

“I’ve seen the players looking good. The way the match went also plays a role, but we’re already focused on Inter. We have the chance to reach the Champions League final — it’s the most important competition. We’re in a privileged position. Training went well, and we talked about what we can improve from the game against Madrid.”

When asked about possible rotations, the Barcelona trainer did not give a clear answer:

“We’ll see tomorrow. We still have a day, and we’ll see how the players recover. When you look at Inter, you realize they’ve had fewer hours to prepare.”

The German tactician was confident his side can reach the final:

“What I can say is that all the players are focused and want to reach the final. The win against Madrid is important emotionally and can help us keep pushing. I believe we can make it to the final. They will also give everything.”

Flick confirmed that Szczesny will remain the team’s starting goalkeeper for the Champions League:

“Tek will play in the Champions League and maybe we’ll make changes in LaLiga. We’ll see about that later, but Szczęsny will play in the Champions League.”

Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. [Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images]

The Barcelona head coach also talked about the training session held today:

“There’s less and less time. We have to focus on player availability. We’re also focusing on tactics. Two days after recovering, it’s been a good day for tactical work.”

The German manager did not rule out starting Fermin Lopez in this match against Inter Milan:

“Fermín is always an option. On Saturday we went with Olmo, but he could start the match. He did a very good job and we need him. He always gives his all and is at a very high level.”

Hansi Flick also praised Jules Kounde, the hero of the Copa del Rey final:

“Jules is a very professional player. It wasn’t just the goal — he defends very well. Against Madrid, he stopped his opponent, Bellingham. That anticipation surprised me. He’s a very important player.”

The coach did not want to talk about his renewal with Barcelona:

“I believe I’ll be coaching the team next year, yes. I have a contract until the end of next season, I’m very happy and I love this team. This isn’t the right time, and it’s not the moment to talk about it. We’re not focused on what will happen in the future.”

The Blaugrana trainer talked about one of the key aspects of Inter Milan’s game that Barcelona will have to remain wary of:

“Today we met and talked about what we need to change. They will have five players in midfield, and we’ll have to protect the spaces. It’s very important for us to keep possession and reduce mistakes, as well as stay focused in defense.”

The German coach was sure the Italians would give their all to win this tie:

“The Champions League is a huge opportunity for Inter to win the title. It’s something completely different, and the past matches and recent defeats don’t matter.”

Hansi Flick did not want to anticipate how the Nerazzurri would approach the upcoming first leg:

With this presser done, Hansi Flick will now be fully focused on the match scheduled to be played at the Montjuic on Wednesday. Hopefully, he will be able to lead his team to another final and remain on track to win the treble.