Flick talks Ferran, Lamine, Fermin, Lewandowski, Raphinha, match in Miami ahead of Barcelona vs Girona | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed the media ahead of the La Liga clash against Girona, confirming that Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez have returned to training, though neither will play the full 90 minutes.

With key players like Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski, and Ferran Torres unavailable, the coach is forced to rotate carefully. On managing his squad under these conditions, Flick said,

“It’s something I can’t change. We have to find solutions. We have to find players who can start, who can play 90 minutes.

“Lamine and Fermin are back, but we have to manage them. I know that at our best, we can beat anyone.

“The most important thing for me is to fight from the start and play our best football.”

When asked about why injuries have piled up in the squad, Flick explained the challenges of limited options.

“Of course, we’ve been missing players. It’s not always easy. We have to manage the situation. Maybe tomorrow La Masia will have a chance. We will see what happens.”

Lewandowski and Raphinha updates

Flick provided updates on Lewandowski and Raphinha. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Flick also addressed Lewandowski’s recent international duty, where the veteran forward reportedly played despite discomfort. The coach highlighted the striker’s professionalism.

“Robert told me that after the first half, he played with a bandage and said everything was fine. These things aren’t easy for players. Obviously, these situations hurt us.

“For example, in Raphinha’s case, I know why he is like this. Travelling ends up taking its toll.

“Raphinha is one of the most important players we have. We miss him, but it won’t be long before we see him again.”

Regarding Lewandowski’s injury timeline and personal care, Flick reassured fans about the striker’s discipline:

“I would have to think about it, but I don’t think there is any player who takes such good care of his body as Robert.

“I spoke to him and he told me he didn’t think it was an injury. He is always very responsible with his health and his body. No one, except perhaps Cristiano, takes such good care of themselves as he does.”

On Raphinha’s return ahead of the El Clásico, Flick confirmed the plan, stating, “We hope he will be available.

“That’s our plan, for him to be back for El Clasico. Sometimes there are problems, but he’s on the right track.”

Addressing Yamal rumours and team dynamics

Flick dismissed the rumours regarding Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Flick also responded to the media frenzy about Yamal allegedly being late for a drill before the PSG match. He dismissed the claims entirely.

“I’d like to know where they got that from. It’s nonsense. Neither Deco nor anyone else at the club has ever said anything to me.

“They have a lot of confidence in my work and would never ask me for anything. It’s nonsense. I have nothing to hide. If anyone has said this, they’re lying.”

Regarding Yamal’s off-field life, the coach stressed boundaries between professional and private matters.

“Let’s see. For me, the most important thing is that when he’s here, he works hard. All of this is perfect.

“He’s very professional. On his days off, it’s his private life. I don’t get involved in that. It’s his life.”

Flick also elaborated on pressing tactics and squad adaptation with several players out.

“I always say that when we defend, I include everyone. The forwards want us to create chances, but the defenders also want the forwards to press.

“We have to fight for every title again. We don’t have all our players available, but it’s also an opportunity for the young players and those who have had less playing time.”

Miami controversy and squad renewals

Flick gave his opinion on the Villarreal match in Miami. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Touching on the controversial match in Miami against Villarreal, Flick expressed his acceptance of the situation while remaining critical.

“The players aren’t happy, I’m not happy… but LaLiga has decided that this match will be played in Miami and we’ll play it.

“There will be a Christmas break between that last match and the match against Espanyol, and then we’ll fly to Saudi Arabia. It’s a situation we’re familiar with and respect.”

Finally, Flick commented on Eric Garcia’s development and recent contract renewals.

“Eric has improved a lot. He has played at a very high level in different positions. It’s great for a coach to have a player like that.

“I’m very happy, also because De Jong has renewed his contract. Everything is moving in the right direction,” he concluded.

Source: AS