Flick issues Barcelona title warning – ‘We have to fight Espanyol for the three points first’ | OneFootball

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has urged his side to stay focused ahead of Thursday’s Catalan derby against Espanyol.

The Blaugrana’s dramatic 4-3 comeback victory over Real Madrid at the weekend has left them needing just three points to clinch the La Liga title.

They could even be crowned champions before kick-off if Real Madrid fail to beat Real Mallorca on Wednesday night.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Flick downplayed the hype around potential celebrations and insisted that all attention must remain on the task at hand.

“It’s a derby and Espanyol have had a great second half of the season,” he said. “We will have to be very focused.”

Barcelona have gone 27 La Liga matches unbeaten against their local rivals, but Flick made it clear that nothing should be taken for granted.

He confirmed that Pau Cubarsi, who suffered a knock in training, is fit to feature and that Robert Lewandowski is also ready to start.

On the subject of team selection, Flick kept his cards close to his chest. “Today I have decided that I will not talk about the starting XI,” he stated.

With Inigo Martinez suspended, the manager hinted that Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia are in contention to partner Cubarsi at centre-back.

He also addressed the controversy surrounding Ronald Araujo’s recent behaviour, defending his player while stressing the importance of respect.

“There are things that happen,” Flick said. “We’ve talked about it and he’s fine.”

While speculation around Flick’s contract renewal continues to circulate, the German tactician brushed off questions about his future.

“I’m very happy here and I have one more year,” he said. “Now is not the right time to talk about this.”

He also refused to be drawn into discussions about summer signings, reiterating that the current focus is solely on finishing the season strong.

Flick praised Carlo Ancelotti, who is set to depart Real Madrid at the end of the campaign, calling him ‘a gentleman and one of the best coaches in the world’.

As for the celebrations if the title is secured on Thursday, Flick emphasised restraint and respect.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea to think about celebrations before the game,” he said. “We will have to fight Espanyol for the three points first.”