Flick talks Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, Marc Casado, Pedri after Las Palmas 0-2 Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona secured a 2-0 victory over Las Palmas, ensuring they maintained their position at the top of the La Liga table. However, despite the result, manager Hansi Flick was not entirely satisfied with his team’s performance.

The German coach acknowledged that the match was far from easy and admitted that his players struggled in several aspects throughout the game.

Flick made a few changes to the starting lineup, giving opportunities to Fermin Lopez, Marc Casado, and Eric Garcia.

However, the modifications did not immediately translate into a breakthrough for Barcelona, as the team found it difficult to break down Las Palmas’ defensive structure.

The opening goal did not come from any of the starters but rather from two players introduced later in the game—Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres. Their contributions ultimately helped Barcelona secure the win.

“I feel tired after the difficulty of the match. It wasn’t a very good match, but we won,” said the manager after the game.

Impact of the substitutes

Dani Olmo was on the scoresheet against Las Palmas. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Flick made his first substitution at half-time, introducing Olmo in place of Fermin. This decision paid off as the Spanish midfielder broke the deadlock just after the hour mark, giving Barcelona the advantage they had been searching for.

In the dying moments of injury time, Torres added another goal, giving the team a comfortable lead and securing the three points.

Flick was visibly pleased with the impact his substitutes had on the game, as they turned the match in Barcelona’s favour when the team was struggling to break through.

“The changes worked. That’s what the players on the bench are for. They bring us a lot,” he said.

The manager acknowledged that Olmo’s goal was crucial, not just for the team but also for the player himself. Having returned from an injury, Olmo had been working hard to regain his rhythm, and his goal was a positive sign.

“The goal is very important, for us and for Olmo. He didn’t play more before because he was injured and the others were also a little better in terms of fitness. We are happy for him. It was a good goal for him.

Flick also highlighted Torres’ contributions, pointing out that the forward has consistently made an impact, even when coming off the bench.

“I’m happy with Ferran. He has scored many goals even coming off the bench (6). It’s not easy for him, but he always has the opportunity to earn a place in the starting XI,” he noted.

Defensive solidity and clean sheet

Flick praised Marc Casado. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s defensive performance was another important takeaway from the match. The backline remained composed under pressure, and Flick praised the entire defensive unit for their discipline and organisation.

The centre-backs were solid, the full-backs contributed effectively, and Casado, playing in the holding midfield role, also put in a strong performance.

Flick also emphasised that Pedri’s vision and control are crucial for Barcelona, and his ability to dictate play helps the team maintain balance.

“Everyone is showing responsibility in this area. We have four centre-backs and they are all at a good level.

“The full-backs are also doing well, and Casado, the number 6. And Pedri, you always need him on the pitch. On Tuesday we have an important match.”

Concerns over performance

Despite the victory, Flick was not entirely satisfied with how Barcelona performed. He pointed out that the team struggled with ball control and possession, which led to unnecessary mistakes.

The first half, in particular, was problematic, as Barcelona had more difficulty than expected in asserting dominance over the game.

“We lacked control and possession. We didn’t play as we would have liked. We lost balls and were inaccurate. In the first half, we had more problems than usual,” he added.

Source: MARCA