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Barcelona started the new year with a resounding 4-0 victory over Barbastro, securing a place in the round of 16 of the Copa del Rey.
Coach Hansi Flick was visibly pleased with the team’s collective performance and saw the victory as a step in the right direction after a challenging end to 2024, where results had fallen.
Flick underlined the importance of this victory and expressed his hope that the momentum gained in this match would carry over to the next Spanish Super Cup.
Match analysis
Flick highlighted the team’s defensive solidity as a key factor in the victory. The players gave their opponents no chances, ensuring a dominant performance from start to finish.
This defensive organization laid the foundation for the attack, allowing Barcelona to dictate the game and score comfortably.
“We had to start the year like this, coming from where we come from. We were very good in defense. We didn’t give our rivals any chance.” said.
The role of Ansu Fati
Flick prefers to use Ansu Fati, who came on as a substitute, on the left wing rather than in a central role as a striker.
The coach explained that this positioning allows Ansu to exploit his strengths, providing creativity and cutting inside to pose a threat to rival defenses.
His role in the game further demonstrated why Flick sees him as a key part of the team in this position.
“Both today and in previous games, I always think of Ansu playing on the left. “I prefer him to play there and not as a forward.” he added.
The contribution of Pablo Torre
The coach also praised the efforts of the least used players, especially Pablo Torre. Torre had a great performance, showing his skills and showing that the team has depth.
Flick’s satisfaction with Torre’s level of play underscores the importance of each player stepping up in critical moments.
“I am very happy with the level of the less common players today and with the general performance of the entire team.”
The return of Ronald Araujo
Ronald Araujo’s return from a serious injury was another highlight of the match. Playing the full 90 minutes, he demonstrated his reliability and leadership on the field.
Flick’s decision to entrust him with a significant amount of playing time reflects the defender’s importance as a player and captain.
“Araujo has returned after a serious injury. He was able to play 90 minutes and his level has been seen. “He has spoken on the field, he is one of our captains.”
Updates on Lamine Yamal and Raphinha
The coach hinted at the possibility of Lamine Yamal being present in the Spanish Super Cup, although the final decision will depend on training in Barcelona and Saudi Arabia.
“We traveled on Monday, we trained on Monday in Barcelona and on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia. That’s all we have before that game. “I think Lamine could be in the game against Athletic.” he pointed out.
As for Raphinha, Flick explained that, although the player has been training well, it is more prudent to give him rest for this match to avoid risks.
“Raphinha had some problems, he was training well but we decided it was more prudent to spare him this trip.” he concluded.
Source: AS
