Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised his team’s defensive performance after their 3-0 victory over Aston Villa in the UEFA Champions League, while also providing updates on Rodri, Frenkie de Jong and Marc Bernal.
Speaking during his post-match press conference, the German highlighted the importance of defensive organisation, collective responsibility and the contribution of his younger players.
However, Rodri’s muscular discomfort and Raphinha’s emotional situation also featured prominently, with Barcelona now turning their attention towards Sunday’s LaLiga meeting with Atlético Madrid.
Flick praises Barcelona’s defensive organisation
Flick was particularly pleased with how Barcelona defended as a collective unit against a strong Aston Villa side.
The manager highlighted the performances of the defensive line and goalkeeper Joan Garcia, expressing satisfaction with the development of his younger players.
Hansi Flick praised Joan Garcia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
“It was really important that we defended together as a unit today, staying compact.
“The back line performed incredibly well. Joan Garcia did too. If you look at their age and how the young players have performed… it makes me happy.”
Explaining what pleased him most about the victory, Flick added:
“We played against a very good side, and we wanted to put them under pressure.
“What’s also important is how we defended and the confidence we showed with and without the ball.”
He also emphasised the collective effort behind the clean sheet.
“It was important; they’re a great side. We defended well, and we’re happy with what we saw in defence.
“Everyone gave their all to keep a clean sheet. We’re pleased with the victory.”
Rodri injury concern and updates on Barcelona midfielders
Rodri’s condition was another major talking point following his substitution at half-time.
Rodri was taken off at half-time. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
The midfielder experienced muscular discomfort, leaving his availability for the Atlético Madrid fixture uncertain.
Providing an update, Flick said, “He’s felt a niggle in his muscles, and we’ll have to wait until tomorrow.”
The Barcelona manager also discussed the importance of having Frenkie de Jong available again, although he acknowledged that the Dutchman was still working towards full fitness.
“It’s very important to have him back. He might not be 100 per cent yet, but he’s performing at a good level. We’re taking it step by step.
“He’s an excellent player. We were looking for quality players in every position. With him, we’ve got one or two positions very well covered.”
Regarding Marc Bernal’s performances and his midfield options, Flick explained:
“Frenkie’s just come back from injury; he played as a centre-back against Alavés, and Bernal has played very well whenever he’s been on the pitch.”
Flick addresses Raphinha situation before Atletico test
Raphinha was on the scoresheet against Aston Villa. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
Flick also spoke about Raphinha, revealing that recent events in Tenerife had affected the Brazilian emotionally.
He expressed his condolences while explaining the circumstances surrounding the winger’s substitution.
“What happened in Tenerife has affected him. It’s affected us all. My condolences to the family, the club, friends… to everyone.
“It’s a tragedy. And it’s affected him. He wasn’t upset about being substituted. That’s all I can say.
“You have to be there and stick to the plan. We’re all human. It’s affected him.”
Barcelona now have limited recovery time before their next challenge. Flick acknowledged the importance of managing the squad ahead of the Atlético encounter, concluding,
“We’ve got four days to recover.”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
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