Flick talks Gavi, Martinez, Pedri, De Jong, Balde, player fatigue after Barcelona 1-1 Real Betis | OneFootball

Barcelona were handed a golden opportunity to create a significant gap at the top of the La Liga table after Real Madrid suffered a 1-2 defeat against Valencia.

However, Hansi Flick’s side failed to take full advantage, managing only a 1-1 draw against Real Betis. The result means Barcelona gained just one point on their biggest rivals instead of pulling six points ahead.

While the outcome could be seen as a setback, Flick focused on the positives, appreciating the team’s effort and commitment throughout the match.

Despite the disappointment of not securing all three points, the manager highlighted that his players gave their all. The performance, especially in defence, was solid, but Barcelona were unfortunate in front of the goal.

“I told the players that there’s one more game left and we have one more point. I’m left with the idea that the team gave everything.

“We couldn’t score, but we defended well and we weren’t lucky in front of the goal. I’m happy with what I’ve seen from my players,” he began saying.

Is the team tired?

Barcelona were held by Real Betis. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Flick was also quick to point out the physical demands placed on the squad over the past ten days. With several matches being played in quick succession, he expressed pride in how his players have handled the workload.

He acknowledged that they are now in a final and have slightly widened the gap in the league standings.

“We can be proud of what the players have done these past ten days. We’re in a final and we have a bigger points lead. I’m happy, it’s fantastic.”

Update on Inigo Martinez and Gavi

Gavi scored for Barcelona. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

On the injury front, Inigo Martinez was kept out of the matchday squad deliberately so he could undergo further treatment.

Flick confirmed that the defender is expected to be fit for the next match against Borussia Dortmund.

“He’ll be ready. We’ve decided not to let him sit on the bench so he can receive the necessary treatment.”

Meanwhile, Gavi, who hit the 100-game milestone in La Liga, was on the scoresshet against Real Betis.

The manager expressed full confidence in the young midfielder’s return to full strength, assuring that the club will support his rehabilitation every step of the way.

“He had a terrible injury and is getting better and better. I have no doubt he’ll be back to his best. We will help him get back to 100 percent.”

On substitutions

Flick made planned changes. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Regarding the substitutions made during the match, Flick explained that they had been planned in advance due to the physical strain on several key players.

Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Ferran Torres were all given limited minutes to avoid fatigue.

The changes, he clarified, were not tactical but necessary to manage fitness levels and prevent further injuries.

“We made important changes that we had decided before the game. It was important that Pedri, Frenkie, and Ferran played less.

“Pedri almost always plays every minute, Frenkie has had problems in the last two games, and we also have to be careful with Balde. The changes weren’t tactical,” he added.

Source: AS