Flick talks Gavi, Cancelo, Lamine, Pedri, Joan Garcia after Barcelona 5-2 Sevilla | OneFootball

Hansi Flick was pleased with the result but far from satisfied with the overall performance after Barcelona secured an entertaining 5-2 victory against Sevilla in La Liga.

The German coach approached the match with caution, as Barcelona are entering a crucial stage of the season, with a decisive UEFA Champions League clash against Newcastle United looming. 

While the win over Sevilla strengthened the team’s domestic momentum, Flick made it clear that improvement is still needed if Barcelona are to compete for silverware during the final two and a half months of the campaign.

Speaking after the match, Flick admitted that despite the scoreline, he was not entirely happy with aspects of Barcelona’s play.

“We need to do better. Our passing was a bit slow, and we lacked pace. But, of course, we’re happy about the win and Gavi’s return. 

“For him, it’s an important step in the right direction. Today, with such a comfortable lead, the situation was right for him to come on.

“Everyone at Barça is happy he’s back. Ronald decided to give him the captain’s armband… it was his decision. And that shows the atmosphere in the locker room.”

Conceding two goals

Cancelo was on the scoresheet. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Despite scoring five goals, Barcelona conceded twice late in stoppage time, something Flick was clearly not pleased about.

Reflecting on those defensive lapses, he explained where the team went wrong.

“Yes, but a goal starts when the play begins, not just there. And when you lose the ball, you have to press. 

“There are players who have been very good, like Olmo, Raphinha, Cancelo… But I insist, there are things the team needs to improve.”

Among the players singled out for praise was new signing Joao Cancelo, who delivered an impressive performance, including a goal and winning penalties.

“He needed time to adjust to certain things. He’d played his last matches in November and hadn’t seen any playing time, but he’s fantastic. 

“He scored a great goal and also drew the penalties. I think signing him was the right decision.”

On Lamine and Pedri

The German tactician also explained his decision to initially leave teenage sensation Lamine Yamal on the bench, before eventually bringing him into the match.

Lamine Yamal was rested. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“It’s good to play. You have to stay sharp. And Roony had been having some issues. But I already knew before the game that Lamine would play.”

Barcelona’s goalkeeper Joan Garcia also endured a frustrating moment after conceding late goals. Flick admitted that goalkeepers rarely accept such moments calmly.

“I’ve never seen a goalkeeper happy when he lets in goals. I think on the first goal we could have pressed better, and on the 5-2, we could have been a bit smarter. 

“Pass the ball and let them move, but… We’re always thinking about attacking.”

Finally, Flick addressed the delicate management of Pedri, who has recently returned from injury and must be handled carefully.

“I don’t know. We’ll have to adapt. We have to take it step by step, but I’m happy that he can play and that he’s available. 

“If it’s 45 minutes, fine. If it’s 60, better. And if it’s 90, perfect. But he’s had two injuries, and we have to be careful,” he concluded.

Source: AS