Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has hinted that there is a strong chance Lamine Yamal could feature in the match against Sevilla, though a final decision will be made closer to the game.
During his pre-match press conference, Flick touched on several key topics, including the condition of his squad and the potential involvement of players like Yamal, Gavi, Fermin Lopez, and Dani Olmo, as well as the situation with Wojciech Szczesny.
Regarding Yamal, Flick explained that he is being integrated step by step, and while it is likely he may play against Sevilla, the decision will ultimately be made tomorrow.
“Step by step. Tomorrow we have Sevilla. It’s an important match and the eleven will be the best to play against Sevilla,” the manager told the press.
“He might play, that’s the idea, we’ll see tomorrow. The rest has been very good for him. We want to thank the Spanish national team, they made an appropriate decision that has been very good for us.”
When discussing the communication with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) regarding Yamal, Flick recognised the delicate balance national team coaches must strike with players.
“I’ve been on the other side too. The coach has done what he wants. When players need to rest, they should do so. The Spanish national team has very good players and it’s not a problem if someone else plays.”
Szczesny and Pena
Inaki Pena will start in goal for Barcelona against Sevilla. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
As for the goalkeeping situation, Szczesny’s readiness to play was acknowledged, but Flick was clear that Inaki Pena will be starting both the Sevilla match and next week’s game.
“It’s fine for him to say he’s ready, but there’s no reason for Inaki Pena not to play.”
Flick emphasised his satisfaction with Pena’s performances, indicating that Szczesny, while eager to return, won’t displace Pena at this moment.
“Pena…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/flick-talks-yamal-gavi-olmo-fermin-szczesny-pena-de-jong-ansu-xavi-ahead-of-barcelona-vs-sevilla/
Author : Swapnil Bhopatkar
Publish date : 2024-10-19 11:50:43
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