Olmo talks Fermin, Pedri, Lamine, Joan Garcia, Dro, La Masia ahead of Barcelona vs Copenhagen | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo faced the media ahead of what promises to be a decisive UEFA Champions League night for Barça against FC Copenhagen. 

With qualification to the next phase and a potential top-eight finish on the line, Olmo struck a confident and focused tone, underlining the squad’s ambition and belief.

Asked about Barcelona’s approach to the match and whether the team would be keeping an eye on results elsewhere, Olmo said,

“We’ve prepared for the game in the same way as always. We create a lot of chances and we’ll have opportunities. 

“The aim is to win, first and foremost, and then score as many goals as possible. We don’t care about the other games.”

Change in position

There is also the possibility that Olmo could be deployed deeper in midfield, a scenario he brushed off calmly.

“It’s a different role. We also have other players who can play there, like Bernal, Casado, Eric. 

Dani Olmo might play a little deep. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“It’s a position I’ve played before, with the coach and other teams. It won’t be a problem.”

Olmo was also asked about his growing on-field chemistry with Fermin Lopez, who is enjoying a breakthrough season.

“I’m very happy for him. He’s an incredible player and a teammate I get along with very well. It’s good news for the club and the dressing room. 

“We have a great relationship on the field, now we have more opportunities to play together, and we’ve shown that we’re compatible.”

On Dro’s exit

Reflecting on his own form, Olmo acknowledged improvement but insisted there is more to come.

“I’m happy, but I can still improve. I’ve had more consistency and been more accurate. 

“I can still improve in many areas, and the best part of the season is yet to come.”

The topic of young players leaving Barcelona also came up, particularly in reference to Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernandez. Olmo chose a respectful and measured response.

“Everyone has their reasons. I had mine, and now Dro has his. 

“It’s a shame because the club was committed to him and he was already with us, part of the first team dynamic, but it’s his decision. I wish him all the best, that’s all.”

Goal for the season

On Barcelona’s objectives for the campaign, Olmo left no room for doubt. “The goal is to improve on last season. It’s to win. 

Olmo did not want to compare Yamal to Messi. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“The whole team knows that, and we’re going for it. Things happen in every game, but playing the perfect game leaves no room for improvement.”

When asked about comparisons between Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi, Olmo urged caution.

“Nothing can be said about the paths, right? Lamine has his own path. He knows that. 

“Comparing him to Messi is crazy. Although Lamine is spectacular, he gives us a lot, but he will give us much more in the future. 

“We are there to help him, to make him better. If he plays well, the team will win. It’s a collective thing.”

Praise for Joan Garcia and La Masia

With Pedri unavailable, Olmo accepts added responsibility.

“The best position for me is ‘10’, where I move better, between the lines, but I have no problem taking on another role at the base, with more freedom.”

He also highlighted the importance of Joan Garcia.

“Joan is a great goalkeeper. He’s already proven that here and he proved it at Espanyol. He helps us and he will continue to help us.”

Finally, Olmo spoke emotionally about the value of La Masia and Flick’s trust. “Having so many people from the club makes it even more worthwhile. 

“For those of us who have been here for so long, defending the badge in the first team is a bonus that can’t be beaten.”

Lastly, on Flick’s influence, he concluded, “He asks me to be myself. He knew me from the Bundesliga and when I arrived, he told me that’s why he brought me here. 

“Because of my knowledge, how I controlled the ball under pressure and how I got into the box. It’s up to me to keep improving.”

Source: AS