Flick talks Cancelo, Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Rashford, Lamine ahead of Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed the media ahead of a crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Atletico Madrid at the Spotify Camp Nou, offering insight into his team’s mindset, preparation, and key players.

Having already faced Atletico in La Liga just days earlier, there is a sense of familiarity between the two sides. 

However, Flick was quick to underline that European nights bring a completely different challenge.

When asked whether the previous meeting gives Barcelona an advantage, the German coach said,

“It’s different. Not entirely, but different. The Champions League is a different competition. 

“That’s how I see it. We’re playing against a tough opponent with fantastic players. We want to advance to the next round.”

On Atletico Madrid

Barcelona will once again face Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Expanding on Atlético’s strengths, Flick emphasised the difficulty of breaking down Diego Simeone’s side, highlighting both their structure and mentality, as he explained,

“Atletico is a tough team. They have the right attitude, fast players, and are strong on the field. On Saturday, they rested several players and still played well. 

“It’s not easy to score two goals against Atletico. That’s all I can say. It’s always tough. The match will be very exciting. 

“We’ll try to get a good result, but we know we have to play there. We want to reach our goal.”

With Atletico known for their aggressive style, Flick was also questioned about discipline and how Barcelona plan to cope with the physicality of the game. 

“We have to focus on our performance and what we do. We have to focus on our own game. That’s what I want to see.”

On the tactical front, Flick hinted that his team have been working on specific ideas, though he kept details under wraps, saying,

“Today was just another day of practising something special. It’s good to do it on the field. 

“Practising it on the field is important. We did it today, and hopefully we’ll see the results tomorrow.”

On Joao Cancelo

Attention also turned to Joao Cancelo, with suggestions that the full-back wants to stay.

Cancelo wants to continue at Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Flick, however, stressed the importance of focus and consistency on the match, stating,

“We have to focus on playing. The important thing is that we stay focused from the start. 

“We’re ready for these two games. It’s the Champions League—it’s great to play in. Everyone wants to play.”

When asked about Cancelo’s future, Flick avoided speculation but praised his current impact, explaining,

“I don’t like to talk about the future. He’s playing at a high level. He played in the United States and put in a great performance on Saturday. 

“He was completely exhausted by the end. He’s a great professional with incredible technique.”

Is the team ready?

On the physical demands of the season, Flick acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic about his squad’s readiness,

“I hope not. We’ll see tomorrow. In La Liga, we want to win, and that was an important victory. Tomorrow is different.

“Tomorrow, everyone wants to give their best and play at the highest level. Everyone is looking forward to this match. It’s a great opportunity for everyone.”

The Barcelona manager also took a moment to highlight the contribution of the club’s young talents, particularly Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin, saying,

“We’re a really young team. Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin are giving it their all, playing every minute of every game.

“I really appreciate that. They’re young. Gerard Martin’s transition from the B team to this level has been fantastic.”

On Rashford

Speaking about Marcus Rashford, Flick emphasised his importance while also pointing out the need for balance in his game, stating,

Flick addressed Lamine Yamal’s reaction. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

“He’s important. We know he’s fantastic with the ball, but defending is part of the game. 

“He’s doing well and adapting. Atlético does a great job of that in the Champions League.”

Lamine Yamal’s anger

Finally, Flick addressed the emotional reaction of Lamine Yamal after being substituted in the previous match, offering a balanced and supportive perspective on the young star.

“What we have to remember is that Lamine is 18 years old. He’s an incredible player. Sometimes you see what he does, and it’s amazing—especially in one-on-one situations.

“But he’s only 18. Sometimes he gets upset when I sub him out, maybe because he’s trying to take on four or five defenders and shoot. He might be frustrated. He’s emotional, and that’s okay.

“We support him. We help him grow. We have to look out for him. I know everyone is watching him because he’s fantastic. 

“But he’s only 18. We all make mistakes. We’ll always protect him. He’ll be the best in the future,” he concluded.

Source: AS