Hansi Flick talks Yamal, Raphinha, Bernal, Budimir ahead of Osasuna vs Barcelona | OneFootball

Following their 0-2 win over Getafe in their last La Liga game, FC Barcelona are set to return to action in the league on Saturday when they face Osasuna in Pamplona. The Blaugranes can see themselves being declared as the Spanish champions, if they win this game and Real Madrid are unable to get a win in the next game against Espanyol.

As Mundo Deportivo has reported, Hansi Flick talked to the press ahead of this game against the Pamplona side, and talked about different aspects of the upcoming game and his team in general.

The German coach started by praising his upcoming opponents, Osasuna:

“It’s important to want to win. We’re playing against an experienced team. Budimir is doing a great job, and the team knows how to play. The atmosphere there is good. We have to play at the same level as we did against Getafe. We defended well and used the space they gave us. I don’t want to talk about the matches that come after.”

The Barcelona coach confirmed that Raphinha will travel with the team for this game:

“Injuries are things that happen. Rafa always gives 100%. That’s his mentality, his attitude. He helps us a lot, but this season he has suffered. It’s important to have him back. He will travel and we’ll see what happens. He is the captain. Maybe he gives us what we need.”

Hansi Flick was not too keen to comment on the controversies in the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League:

“I don’t want to waste time on this. It’s already happened. I watched the matches and enjoyed them, but I didn’t think beyond that.”

The German trainer also confirmed that Lamine Yamal’s recovery is going well:

“We are in contact. He is doing well, the progress is good. I think we will see him at the World Cup. He has time to recover and return. That’s what he wants.”

Despite their early elimination, the Barcelona coach was clear that his team can compete for the UCL:

“100%, 100% yes.”

Flick was not too concerned with seeing his team reaching the 100-points mark:

“We are only focused on the next match. I’m not good with numbers. It would be perfect if we could win every match, but we still have difficult opponents left. We have to play at our best level. That is our philosophy and mentality. I’m happy with what I see in training. The squad is 100% focused.”

The German coach also reflected on his team’s last defeat at El Sadar:

“I remember that day because we made many changes to the starting lineup. We won’t do that tomorrow. I think we are in a good moment now. I also know that Osasuna are playing well and that one of their goals is to play in Europe next season. As always, we will have to give our best.”

The Blaugrana tactician also gave an update on the situations of two more players:

Flick was already counting on Xavi Espart going forward:

“He is doing well. I like what I see. For me, he is a great option for next season and for the upcoming matches.”

The German coach did not reveal too much about Robert Lewandowski’s situation:

“Of course we talk, but that stays between us. We are only focused on the five matches that remain. Afterwards, we will talk with everyone and see what happens.”

Lastly, the Barcelona coach once again spoke of how good the atmosphere in the club is for him:

“Every day I feel the affection of the people, and I appreciate it. It’s an honor. When you coach a club like Barça, it’s about winning titles. For the staff, that was our objective. We have a great atmosphere at the club and in the dressing room. You can have the best players, but to win titles you need the best team. How we manage that is what matters.

They are doing very well. Everyone is giving 100%, including the fans. It’s wonderful to walk through the streets—even when we lose, the attitude of the supporters surprises me positively. They value how the team plays. It makes me feel proud. It’s still not done. We are on the right path to winning La Liga, but it’s not finished yet.”

Hopefully, Hansi Flick will lead his side to another La Liga win as soon as possible, and also renew his contract to ensure his long-term future with Barcelona.