Hansi Flick is fired up for the La Liga opener FC Barcelona launch their title defence this Saturday 16 August, away to Mallorca. In his pre-match press conference, he expressed satisfaction with his side’s early-season work and backed them to make a winning start.
“I’m very happy with what I’ve seen in training” the German coach said. “The team is working hard to improve every day. The players are ready for the game at Son Moix.” the German coach said. “Winning three titles last year is not the end, it’s the continuation. We’ll give everything again this season.”
The message was clear. No room for complacency. In La Liga, every opponent is tough and we have to give our best. We’ll give everything in every match.”
Above all, he stressed belief in Barça’s style of play. “It’s always good to start with wins” he admitted. “But the most important thing is to believe in how we want to play and keep our confidence. The road is long.”
Team first, always
Asked about rising star Lamine Yamal, Flick stuck to his philosophy of team success over personal stats. “The most important thing is to win as a team” he said. “I don’t care how many goals he scores, what matters is winning together.”
Even so, he praised the 18-year-old’s display in the Gamper against Como, adding that “he’s training very well, on and off the ball, defending and pressing.”
Depth and versatility
Flick also welcomed the squad’s flexibility: “It’s good to have versatile players, but you have to manage it. Gerard Martín can play at centre-back or left-back, and he’s done well in both.”
He also name-checked Dani Olmo and Fermín as key attacking pieces: “Fermín’s season last year was spectacular. Dani Olmo is also in great form.”
And he saved special praise for his goalkeeper: “Joan Garcia is a fantastic keeper.”
All in all, there was a confident feel to the conference. And hopefully that same buzz of positivity will shine on the pitch tomorrow!