Barcelona started the brand new 12 months with a powerful 4-0 victory over Barbastro, securing their place within the Copa del Rey’s spherical of 16.
Supervisor Hansi Flick was visibly happy with the workforce’s collective efficiency and noticed the win as a step in the fitting course after a difficult finish to 2024, the place outcomes had dipped.
Flick confused the significance of this triumph, expressing hope that the momentum gained from this match would carry into the upcoming Spanish Tremendous Cup.
Match evaluation
Flick highlighted the workforce’s defensive solidity as a key issue within the win. The gamers gave their opponents no alternatives, making certain a dominant efficiency from begin to end.
This defensive organisation laid the inspiration for the assault, permitting Barcelona to dictate the sport and rating comfortably.
“We needed to begin the 12 months like this, coming from the place we got here from. We had been superb in defence. We didn’t give our rivals any likelihood,” he mentioned.
Ansu Fati’s function
Hansi Flick defined Ansu Fati’s function. (Picture by David Ramos/Getty Photos)
Flick prefers utilizing Ansu Fati, who got here on instead, on the left wing moderately than in a central function as a striker.
The supervisor defined that this positioning permits Ansu to use his strengths, offering creativity and slicing inside to pose a menace to opposition defences.
His function within the sport additional demonstrated why Flick sees him as a key a part of the workforce on this place.
“Each as we speak and in earlier video games, I at all times consider Ansu enjoying on the left. I favor him to play there and never as a striker,” he added.
Pablo Torre’s contribution
Flick was pleased with Torre’s efficiency. (Picture by David Ramos/Getty Photos)
The supervisor additionally praised the efforts of the much less often used gamers, notably Pablo Torre. Torre delivered a robust efficiency, showcasing his talents and proving that the squad has depth.
Flick’s satisfaction with Torre’s stage of play underscores the significance of each participant stepping up throughout crucial moments.
“I’m very pleased with the extent of the much less widespread gamers as we speak and with the general efficiency of your entire workforce.”
Ronald Araujo’s return
Araujo performed full 90 minutes. (Picture by Alex Caparros/Getty Photos)
Ronald Araujo’s return from a critical damage was one other spotlight of the match. Enjoying the total 90 minutes, he demonstrated his reliability and management on the pitch.
Flick’s determination to entrust him with vital sport time displays the defender’s significance as each a participant and a captain.
“Araujo has returned after a critical damage. He was capable of play 90 minutes and you’ve got seen his stage. He has spoken on the pitch, he’s one in all our captains.”
Updates on Lamine Yamal and Raphinha
Lamine Yamal will probably be out there towards Athletic Membership. (Picture by Lars Baron/Getty Photos)
The supervisor hinted at the opportunity of Lamine Yamal that includes within the Spanish Tremendous Cup, although the ultimate determination would rely upon coaching classes in Barcelona and Saudi Arabia.
“We journey on Monday, we practice on Monday in Barcelona and on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia. That’s all we have now earlier than that sport. I believe Lamine may very well be within the sport towards Athletic,” he famous.
As for Raphinha, Flick defined that though the participant had been coaching effectively, it was deemed wiser to relaxation him for this match to keep away from any dangers.
“Raphinha had some issues, he was coaching effectively however we determined it was extra prudent to save lots of him this journey,” he concluded.
Supply: AS