Flick talks Olmo, Kounde, Ferran, Frenkie, Casado, Inigo, Pena after Barcelona 3-1 Espanyol | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick walked away from the recent derby clash against Espanyol with mixed feelings. The 3-1 victory kept Barcelona at the top of the league table, reinforcing their strong grip on the competition.

However, Flick was not entirely pleased with how the team performed, especially during certain moments in the match where they seemed to lack focus and control, particularly in the second half.

Reflecting on the game, Flick acknowledged that while he was glad to secure the three points, he noticed a drop in concentration after halftime.

He stressed to his players that, despite the successful outcome, they need to demonstrate more intensity and focus for the upcoming fixtures.

“I’m happy to have won. I agree that we lost concentration in the second half. I have said that to the team. We’re having a very good season.

“Today I accept the second half because we won, but for Wednesday we need more strength,” he began saying.

Thoughts on Dani Olmo

Dani Olmo scored a brace against Espanyol. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Dani Olmo’s impact was also highlighted, and with the Spaniard scoring a brace, Flick expressed satisfaction over his recent contribution to the team.

Olmo, returning from injury, has shown an ability to find the net, which was crucial in the derby.

Flick also pointed out that another player, Fermin Lopez, had impressed him in a previous match against Bayern, showing that Barcelona’s squad depth is a real asset this season.

“He knows how to score and he was very important today. But Fermin also did very well against Bayern. Olmo is back, we are happy with his re-debut.”

He also explained that he is happy to have all the midfielders back in the team, but pressed on the importance of managing the workload.

“Blessed problem… We will play with six midfielders. No, I’m joking. I’m very happy to have more players available, but we have to be careful with Gavi, who is coming back from injury, like Frenkie, Fermín and Dani,” he noted.

Substitutions up front

Lamine Yamal played the full 90 minutes. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

On the subject of Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha playing extended minutes, Flick reiterated that while the front three were not in top form, he believes they can perform at a higher level in upcoming games.

As for his choices in managing the team, Flick explained his decision to make limited substitutions in the second half. Typically, he adjusts the forward line, but this time he chose to focus on changes in the midfield.

“I didn’t want to make too many changes in the second half. We’ve lowered the tension. Sometimes I do change the forwards, but today I focused on the midfielders.”

While the front three remained on the pitch for most of the game, Flick noted that they were not at their best on the day. For future games, he expects the forwards and the entire squad to deliver a higher level of play.

“We wanted to focus on that. Today’s game was different. The three players we have up front are excellent. In the next game we have to be at another level.”

He also stated that substituting Jules Kounde “was my decision”. He noted that with numerous games ahead, rotation is necessary to keep players fresh and avoid injuries.

Ferran Torres’ absence and De Jong’s role

Ferran Torres asked to skip the game. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Ferran Torres’ absence was addressed by Flick as well. He shared that Torres had requested to miss the game due to a difficult situation in his homeland, which Flick fully understood and supported, acknowledging that some matters are indeed more important than football.

“Ferran asked me for permission not to come because he was having a hard time with the tragedy in his homeland. Of course, I understood, there are more important things than football,” he said.

Furthermore, while discussing Frenkie de Jong’s role, Flick explained that he values the player’s versatility.

De Jong is effective both as a number eight and a number six, offering flexibility in midfield. When De Jong entered the game, Flick noted that he faced challenges as the team was making several mistakes, making it difficult to establish control.

“He can play alongside Casado. De Jong is very good at number eight, but also at number six. When he came on it was not easy. We made a lot of mistakes. For those who came on in the second half, it was not easy.”

Happy with Marc Casado

Hansi Flick is happy with Marc Casado. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Marc Casado and young talent Hector Fort also received Flick’s praise. Casado’s improvement has been significant, which is encouraging for Barcelona’s future.

“We are very happy with him. He has improved a lot and it is fantastic to watch. He is playing very well.”

Furthermore, the manager also mentioned Hector Fort, stating that the 18-year-old is showing maturity and confidence, a promising sign for his development.

“He is on the right track. He is 18 years old and we have to be aware of this. He is very confident in himself and knows where he needs to improve.”

Additionally, Flick commended Inigo Martinez for his leadership qualities and praised goalkeeper Inaki Pena. He highlighted Pena’s courage and ability to handle an advanced line, essential in modern football.

“In modern football, you need daring players and the goalkeeper is the key. We are happy with Inaki,” he concluded.

Source: AS