Flick

FC Barcelona earned an important 3–1 victory over Elche on Sunday night, a outcome that retains the staff firmly within the La Liga title race. The match, performed on the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, noticed moments of dominance from the Blaugranas, particularly within the opening phases, the place their urgent and fast transitions set the tone.

Though Elche tried to reply with spells of possession, Barcelona’s attacking rhythm and urgent proved decisive in securing an important house victory. The win leaves Barça second within the league desk, 5 factors behind leaders Actual Madrid.

Following the full-time whistle, as highlighted by Sports activities WorldHansi Flick expressed each satisfaction and self-criticism when chatting with the press after the sport.

The German coach was happy with the outcome however admitted that his staff nonetheless wants to shine a number of features of their play to achieve the consistency he expects:

“I noticed many issues we did very properly and others that weren’t so good. We have to enhance in sure conditions. We confronted a rival that wished to maintain possession, and it wasn’t simple. We wished to press them early, and we did — we scored two targets.”

The Barcelona boss praised his staff’s excessive urgent early within the recreation, which allowed them to attain two fast targets. Nonetheless, he regretted the shortage of ending in entrance of the purpose:

“I believe we created many possibilities however didn’t convert all of them. If we had taken them higher, we may have completed 6–2.”

Flick was additionally requested concerning the absence of Pedri, who stays sidelined after struggling an harm in El Clásico. The coach praised how the squad tailored with out one in every of its key playmakers:

“Everybody is aware of Pedri is a wonderful participant, and we wish him in each recreation. Now that we don’t have him, we should handle it. The gamers did properly. We’ve got three extra factors, and we should hold going. Frenkie is at an unbelievable stage — his performances are glorious in each match. Having him as an 8, and Casadó as a 6, works very properly.”

The German coach gave an replace on Lamine Yamal, who continues to handle a pubalgia challenge:

“He should handle his harm rigorously. He’s coaching and receiving remedy, which is an effective step ahead, however I can’t say the issue is over. He’s doing properly, nevertheless it must be managed.”

Talking about Fermin Lopez, who supplied two assists within the recreation, Flick was filled with reward however maintained his common tone of measured optimism:

“Fermín and different gamers have accomplished some excellent issues and others that want enchancment. He’s in a very good rhythm and has contributed in assault and targets.”

Flick additionally recommended Marcus Rashford, who scored Barcelona’s third purpose, noting that the English ahead continues to develop in confidence:

“One or two extra targets would’ve been good for him. I’m pleased with him — I do know he can play at this stage, and he proved it. He’s an necessary participant.”

Lastly, the German coach had particular phrases for Eric Garcia, who confirmed robust management and composure in protection:

“He’s taken a incredible step ahead. After we scored the third purpose, I informed him to remain optimistic. Working with him is nice.”

Flick confirmed that Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who’s near finishing his restoration, is not going to be obtainable for the upcoming Champions League conflict towards Membership Brugge. The German coach additionally revealed that Marc Bernal has improved considerably in coaching and can quickly get taking part in time.

As well as, Flick shared that he had spoken with Hector Fort to test on his situation, in addition to that of Inaki Pena, with each gamers at the moment plying their commerce for Elche on mortgage.

With this victory, Barcelona stay second within the La Liga standings with 25 factors, 5 behind leaders Actual Madrid. Flick now turns his consideration to the midweek Champions League fixture towards Membership Brugge and the weekend check vs Celta Vigo earlier than the worldwide break.