Barcelona’s recent clash against Atletico de Madrid ended in disappointment for the Catalan giants, as they suffered a 1-2 defeat at home.
This result not only dented their morale but also cost them the top spot in La Liga. The team was led by assistant staff, as manager Hansi Flick is currently serving his second match of a suspension.
Despite being absent on the sidelines, Flick made it a point to attend the post-match press conference, where he reflected on the team’s performance and addressed key areas of concern.
Assessing the game
Barcelona were defeated by Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Flick began by praising his team’s overall effort, stating that they played an excellent game despite the loss. He acknowledged that Atlético, known for their defensive discipline and opportunism, made the most of their chances.
“We played a great game. I’m very proud of my players but very disappointed with the result. Atletico are a very experienced team and have taken advantage of their chance,” the manager began saying.
The manager highlighted standout performances from Pedri and Gavi, expressing pride in their contributions and calling their efforts an example of the level Barcelona aims to maintain.
“It was a very frustrating match. Pedri played incredibly, and so did Gavi. That’s how we want to play. We will be back with a vengeance after Christmas.”
Doubts within the team
Barcelona are under extreme pressure. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
When asked about recurring issues, Flick admitted that dropping points at home is unusual for a team of Barcelona’s stature.
“Not scoring is a problem but it was a fantastic game. It’s not the same as what happened against Las Palmas or Leganes. We made two mistakes and they took advantage of them,” he explained.
He emphasised the importance of learning from mistakes, particularly the two errors that led to Atlético’s goals. Flick stressed that the squad must use the upcoming winter break to refocus and come back stronger, both mentally and tactically.
“The break will be good for us. We have to learn and play smarter. The quality in the game, I have nothing to say.
“Everyone has seen it. The one who scores the most goals wins. Dropping ten points at home is not normal and we will have to work on this.”
The manager also addressed the defensive lapse that allowed Alexander Sorloth to score. “We have made a mistake. And they have made a very hard counterattack against us,” he added.
On Pedri and Gavi
Hansi Flick praised Pedri. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
On individual performances, Flick reserved special praise for Pedri, highlighting his professionalism and commitment to extra training.
He described the midfielder as a player who leads by example and inspires his teammates with his skill and work ethic.
“He is a very professional player. He does extra training and it’s great to see him at this level. He played fantastically. He guides his companions.”
Gavi also received commendation for his energy and passion, which were evident throughout the match. “Gavi played with passion and came back strongly,” said the manager.
Asking for patience
Barcelona could not contain the pressure from Atletico Madrid. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Although Barcelona have slipped to second place in the league, Flick urged calm and optimism. He pointed out that the team had a strong start to the season and is capable of regaining their momentum.
“I’m not worried. We played very well. We started the first two months very well, then we lost a lot of points and now we are second. But we’re doing a good job. Today we have seen it.”
While the defeat to Atletico stings, Flick remains determined to turn things around. With a talented squad and a clear vision, he is confident Barcelona will rise to the challenge and reassert themselves in the title race.
“What we have to do is give them confidence. It’s the coach’s job. To transfer all the players who are doing well. In Munich, the players were more experienced,” he concluded.
Source: AS