Hansi Flick talks Raphinha, Yamal, Araújo, Olmo, Fati after 4-0 Barcelona win over UD Barbastro | OneFootball

FC Barcelona returned to the pitch after the Christmas break and got their first victory of 2025 against the Segunda Federacion side UD Barbastro. The Catalans won the game 4-0, a result that ensures their qualification to the next round of the Copa del Rey.

Hansi Flick also returned to the side of the pitch after quite a long break, as he was suspended for the last two games. As noted by SPORT, the German tactician also undertook his customary press conference after the game and addressed several topics.

The German tactician praised his team for their focus and resilience, highlighting the importance of a strong start to the year:

“This victory is important. We had to start the year like this after where we left off. We were solid defensively, gave no opportunities to our opponents, and made the most of our chances. The team was very focused.”

The inability to register Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor has created a challenging environment for the squad. Flick acknowledged the difficulties but praised his players for their professionalism.

“We have to be professional and accept the situation with Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor. I try to ensure it doesn’t affect the team’s performance. I trust the club. I spoke with Dani this morning, and he just wants to play here.”

Despite the situation, the coach stressed that the team remains determined to perform:

“Everyone in the locker room wants Olmo and Víctor with us, but we were focused on the match against Barbastro. There’s nothing we can do about it. We have to accept it, be professional, and perform on the pitch.”

Toni Fernández made his long-awaited first-team debut after recovering from injury, and Flick was full of praise for the young talent.

“He clearly has a lot of talent. He wasn’t afraid. He came onto the pitch, took the corner, and delivered it perfectly, which is fantastic. It’s great to see him back after being sidelined for so long due to injury.”

Another factor that made this game notable was the return of Ronald Araújo to the pitch, who played his first game of the season for Barcelona. Flick also highlighted the specific characteristics that the Uruguayan brings to the pitch:

“I was in contact with him to see if he could handle the full 90 minutes. [Araújo] is a leader in the locker room, and it’s very good to have him back.”

He also revealed that he prefers Ansu Fati to play more as an ‘11’ than as a ‘9’: “Ansu has almost always played on the left, and I prefer him in that position rather than as an attacking midfielder.”

Raphinha’s absence from the matchday squad raised eyebrows. Flick explained that the Brazilian winger was dealing with minor fitness issues: “Raphinha had some issues. He trained today (Saturday), but we decided not to bring him along.”

On a brighter note, Flick confirmed that Lamine Yamal is on track to return for the Super Cup. “I think he’ll be available for the Super Cup,” he revealed, offering fans a glimpse of hope ahead of the crucial clash.

The Copa del Rey victory gives Barcelona a positive start to the year, but bigger challenges lie ahead. With the Spanish Super Cup fixture against Athletic Club just around the corner, Flick will hope to carry this momentum into the crucial matches to come.

The potential return of Lamine Yamal is a significant boost, though concerns about Raphinha’s fitness remain. As the Catalans navigate their way through adversity, fans will be eager to see how Flick’s team adapts and overcomes the challenges ahead.