Flick talks Ferran, Kounde, Fermin, Hamza Abdelkarim, Thiago, Guardiola ahead of Valencia vs Barcelona | OneFootball

As Barcelona prepare to close the curtain on their title-winning 2025/26 campaign against Valencia, Hansi Flick faced the media for the final time. 

Despite already guiding Barcelona to an impressive collection of silverware, Flick made it obvious that he believes the current project is still only beginning.

“I don’t know how it was in other cases, but my time here has been fantastic, and we want to keep growing. We’ve won five titles, though we’re still hungry for more.”

Rather than focusing purely on the trophies already secured, Flick repeatedly returned to the idea of evolution and improvement. 

“We need to improve and look to the club’s future. I’m fully committed to continuing to win titles and we’ll work hard to compete for the Champions League.”

The Barcelona coach also reflected on the key moment where he truly started believing La Liga was slipping into Barça’s hands. 

“I always try to stay positive, but when we scored the second goal against Real Madrid, I had the feeling that La Liga was within our grasp.”

On Ferran, Kounde and Thiago

Flick has provided an update on Ferran Torres. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Despite growing transfer rumours around several players, the German coach downplayed suggestions of major dressing-room changes this summer. 

When asked about possible exits, Flick made it clear that only Robert Lewandowski has openly informed him about wanting to leave.

“Apart from Lewandowski, no one has told me they want to leave.”

On Ferran Torres, whose future continues to generate speculation, Flick avoided creating unnecessary drama while still praising the player’s professionalism.

“We haven’t discussed his future. He still has a year left on his contract, so there will be plenty of time to address that matter. 

“What I’ve seen is that he’s worked very hard over the last few weeks, with a very positive attitude and good performances.”

The Barcelona boss also offered reassurance regarding Jules Kounde ahead of the World Cup after concerns surrounding the defender’s physical condition.

“He’s going to play in the World Cup. He’s been experiencing some minor niggles, which is why we’ve been taking a cautious approach with him.”

Flick then explained how carefully the club is managing the French defender’s recovery process. 

“Everyone wants to be in top form for the World Cup, and we want to look after them too. 

“He’ll be receiving treatment, working with the coaching staff, and his recovery is going well.”

The German also took time to praise assistant Thiago Alcantara for his contribution. 

“It’s been a pleasure working with him these past two years. He’s helped me a lot and I’ve always been able to count on him.”

On Fermin Lopez and Hamza Abdelkarim

Flick has sided with Fermin Lopez. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Flick also commented on injured midfielder Fermin Lopez while expressing his disappointment. 

“It’s a really tough situation. He’s had a fantastic season and it’s hit him – and us – hard.

“He was looking forward to playing in the World Cup. But that’s the way it is in football and in life.”

The manager added, “Now he has to keep working hard. We’re going to support him and I’m convinced he’ll come back even stronger.”

Flick also hinted that more academy talent could soon receive opportunities during the pre-season, particularly while discussing youngster Hamza Abdelkarim and the continued importance of La Masia.

“We’re planning the pre-season and I’m keeping an eye out, keen to see some new faces.

“When I started in 2024, it was incredible to see the quality at La Masia, and the same is happening this season. When I return, it could be an option.”

On Pep Guardiola

Finally, the Barcelona coach responded warmly when asked about Pep Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City after a decade in charge.

“Ten years here? I don’t think so. At 70, it might not be a good idea to stay in a job like this. 

“What Pep has achieved is impressive: staying at the very top for a decade is a huge achievement.”

As he closed the press conference, Flick delivered a final message reflecting on the intensity of the season and the support he has received inside the club.

“Thank you very much. This season has flown by. It hasn’t been easy. 

“It’s been tough and a lot has happened – things that didn’t go as we’d hoped from the start and which we had to adapt to.”

Source: AS