Flick talks contract renewal, retirement, Bardghji, summer transfer plans ahead of Barcelona vs Celta Vigo | OneFootball

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick faced the media ahead of the La Liga clash against Celta Vigo, and while the focus was on the next game, he revealed much more – from long-term ambitions to transfer plans and dressing room realities.

Starting with the immediate task, Flick made it clear that Barcelona are expecting a difficult night at Spotify Camp Nou.

“When you look at all the matches we have played against them, every game is a real battle.

“Tomorrow we’ll have to play at our very best. It won’t be easy because they always put in a great performance and are good at controlling the game.”

Champions League heartbreak

Inevitably, the conversation shifted towards the Champions League exit, a setback that still lingers. Flick didn’t shy away from it.

Barcelona were knocked out of the Champions League. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“Being knocked out was a real blow, but we have to give our all in our remaining matches and look ahead to next season.

“There are areas where we need to improve. We’ve played well and I’m proud of the team for giving it their all. We need to focus on the league and we want to win it.

“It won’t be easy, but we have to play as well as we possibly can – our best football. We have to give it our all; everyone is happy and proud.”

Winning UCL is still a dream

What stood out most, though, was his long-term vision. 

Flick openly admitted that winning the Champions League with Barcelona remains a personal objective.

“It’s a big dream. There are two things I’d like to achieve, and one of them, of course, is winning the Champions League. I think we can do it.

“We need to make the right decisions. We have to make the right choices in the transfer market. We’ve got a young squad and we’ve got potential.

“The second thing I want is to be the manager of this ground when it’s finished. I don’t know when it will be finished, but it always depends on our performance and how we play.

“ I like how things work here; it’s a big family. We’ve got a lot of energy in the team despite being knocked out of the Champions League.”

Furthermore, there was also clarity when asked about his contract renewal.

“That’s certainly my plan. I’ve said it before and I’m 100% honest: this is going to be the final stage of my career. 

“I feel great at the moment. I’d like to renew, but now isn’t the time to talk about that.”

Assessing the season

Flick is happy with his life in Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

When asked to assess the season, Flick avoided a simple yes or no, instead pointing towards identity and playing style as key factors.

“That’s up to you. When we arrived, we didn’t expect to have four titles. It’s not just about winning titles, but how you win them. 

“The club and the fans are happy. The important thing isn’t winning, but the style.”

Flick also addressed what the team lacks to compete at the very top level in Europe, stressing the importance of leadership and key moments.

Detailing what needs to improve, he noted,

“It is also about momentum and the finer details, and right now it’s important to have the right players available.

“Last year we had Inigo Martinez, who was a great leader. We need people and players who can step up during the match and carry us forward. We’ll learn and develop as players.”

Transfer plan is in motion

Behind the scenes, planning for next season is already ongoing, with Flick working closely with the club’s sporting structure.

Regarding his communication with the hierarchy, he revealed, “We speak to Deco every day. We do so over the phone. 

“We’re also focusing on next season; that’s only natural.”

The manager also took time to speak about Roony Bardghji, acknowledging the challenges faced by the young winger. Providing clarity on his situation, Flick said,

Roony Bardghji is facing an uncertain future at Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“As far as he’s concerned, he’s a fantastic professional. The situation isn’t easy for him. He’s hoping for more playing time. 

“That’s just how it goes sometimes; he’s up against one of the best in the world.

“I’ve already told him we’ll have a chat at the end of the season. They’re all important and we need them to be motivated.”

When asked about signing a new striker, he kept things deliberately vague.

“It’s not the right time to talk about it; we have some clear ideas, but now isn’t the time.”

Finally, Flick remained cautious when discussing potential signings and the title race, refusing to get carried away.

And finally, when asked about winning La Liga, he kept the focus firmly on the present, saying, 

“What matters is the next match and the one after that. Madrid will fight too. These things don’t matter to me. La Liga isn’t decided yet,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo