FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has acknowledged the challenge ahead as his team prepares to face Atlético Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou today.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Monday at the Ciutat Esportiva, Flick expressed both satisfaction with Barcelona’s return to the top of La Liga and caution about the tough test posed by Diego Simeone’s side.
Flick praised Atlético Madrid’s quality and coaching, describing them as “one of the best teams in Europe” and anticipating a “tough encounter.”
“We know we are up against a fantastic team with a lot of quality, one of the best in Europe with one of the best coaches. For that reason it will be a tough encounter,” Flick noted.
He emphasized that while Barcelona is pleased to be leading the league after Saturday’s win over Alavés, maintaining that position throughout the season requires consistent effort.
“We are back at the top and we are happy about that, it’s where we want to be but the important thing is to stay there until the end of the season. We have to keep working hard and give our best. We are leaders but at the moment we are not at our best. We need to move forward to to get back playing our best football,” Flick said.
Addressing his team’s recent performances, Flick admitted that Barcelona is not yet playing at their best and acknowledged uncharacteristic mistakes.
“I think we are committing too many mistakes, despite having the quality to control matches. It’s something we have missed in recent matches but we can do it and we are working towards that,” he added.
On player availability, Flick indicated that Pedri could start the match and confirmed Raphinha is fit to play the full 90 minutes.
However, Ronald Araujo will still be sidelined.
When asked about goalkeeper Joan Garcia, Flick praised his talent and potential, saying, “From the first day I saw his quality. He has a great future ahead of him and his arrival was a great move. He will bring us security for years to come.”
Source: www.Kumasimail.com
