Hansi Flick talks Yamal, Balde, slump in form, team coordination ahead of Barcelona vs Brest | OneFootball

Hansi Flick has addressed concerns regarding Barcelona’s recent dip in form, dismissing claims of a decline in the team’s physical fitness.

Speaking ahead of the crucial UEFA Champions League fixture against Brest, Flick faced the media to provide insights into the challenges his side is currently grappling with.

Youth and team dynamics

Flick emphasised the youthfulness of his squad, pointing out that Barcelona has one of the youngest teams in La Liga. He highlighted that managing a young team comes with its own set of challenges, especially during high-pressure moments.

“We have a young team, I think the youngest in the league. We always try to play. When you’re 2-0 down with one less, you have to know how to play,” he began saying.

Despite recent setbacks, he stressed the team’s focus on learning and improving. Flick acknowledged the tough nature of La Liga games, particularly noting the intense atmosphere during recent away fixtures.

“I could also say that in La Liga there are many very tough games. The fans are wonderful, there is a lot of atmosphere. The atmosphere in Vigo was tense. It is not an excuse. We continue and we are moving forward.”

Learning from the El Clasico aftermath

Hansi Flick says this team is a work in progress. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Reflecting on Barcelona’s struggles since the El Clasico victory, Flick underlined that the team remains a work in progress. While the quality within the squad is undeniable, he admitted that consistency on the pitch has been lacking.

“During the season we have had several situations and we have to learn from them. The quality of the squad is very high and we have to show it on the pitch.”

He expressed confidence that the players are learning from these experiences and are determined to showcase their potential in upcoming matches, including the tie against Brest.

“Tomorrow we want to prove it. It’s a process, this young team is in process. That’s part of football. We are at that moment in La Liga, it is not what we would like.”

Maintaining pressure and control

Hansi Flick has asked for a better connection between attack and defence. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Flick addressed concerns about the team’s cohesion during games, both in defence and attack.

“We are at the same level as a few months ago. The same as in Vigo or against Bayern. We have a lot of things to do better with the ball.”

He highlighted the need for better connections across the pitch, insisting that every player has a role in ensuring defensive solidity while supporting the attack.

Flick acknowledged that high-level opponents are adept at managing pressure, but Barcelona must improve their ability to do the same.

“We have to improve, that’s normal. We have to give confidence to the youngsters and create a positive atmosphere. We have a young team, we are doing things very well. Although not so much in the matches.

“The whole team must be well connected, in defence and in the attack. We must be well connected. We try to manage the pressure with the ball. Teams at this high level know how to handle that pressure. We have to focus on the games,” he explained.

Updates on key players

Hansi Flick has provided updates on Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

On the fitness of Alejandro Balde, Flick confirmed the defender has been dealing with muscle issues and will miss the Brest clash. However, he expressed optimism about Balde’s availability for upcoming fixtures.

“Balde had some muscle problems, so we thought he would rest. He’s better today, but I hope he’ll be an option for the matches after Brest. He won’t be available tomorrow.”

Similarly, regarding Lamine Yamal, Flick noted that the youngster is nearing a return and could feature from the bench in Saturday’s game.

“You know his quality. He gives us a lot more space. I think this could be the last game he misses. On Saturday he could be an option from the bench.”

As Barcelona prepare for the Champions League challenge, Flick’s focus remains on building a unified team capable of meeting the demands of both domestic and European competitions.

Source: AS