Barca Boss Highlights Youth, Teamwork, and Players Ahead of Decisive Semi-Final Second Leg.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick struck a confident and positive tone as he faced the press conference ahead of Tuesday’s decisive UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan. Flick emphasized the importance of unity, enjoyment, and collective effort during the press conference.
The first leg ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw in Spain. Flick is now confident about his players in the second leg as he said, “We have exceptional players, with Lamine Yamal, who is a genius. But it’s the team that is the most important thing. We need all our players to be at their best.”
Flick knows that Barcelona will have to improve defensively as they face a well-drilled Inter side on their home turf. Especially when they handle set-pieces and threats against players, like Denzel Dumfries. He scored twice in the first leg. Flick said, “We have to defend better and change a few things. We all have to be involved in our defensive tasks.”
The Catalans will have to handle a lot of injuries in this fixture. They will be without full-backs Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde, both out with injuries. Flick acknowledged their absence but remained unfazed, saying, “Injuries can’t be changed… Eric, Hector, Araujo can play… They will all help us.”
On the brighter side, they have Robert Lewandowski back for this match. The Polish striker missed the first leg, but he has trained with the first team as he recovered. He is available for selection but may not start the match. Flick confirmed that, saying, “I spoke with him yesterday and he is progressing positively, he will be on the bench in case we need him.”
Despite the magnitude of the match, Flick dismissed the idea of putting pressure on his players. He pressed on the matter, saying “Do you think they should be pressured? (smiles)… I want my players to enjoy and how we are playing. We want to enjoy playing football and for the fans to do so. It’s wonderful to coach this team.”
Also Read: FC Barcelona’s Champions League Semi-Final Record, Important UCL Statistics and More
Flick has helped the team to a great extent in his first season only. Now with a greater target in mind, his final message to his squad was clear: enjoy the occasion, play without fear, and stay united. He pressed, “We want to compete at a good level, without giving up.”
The Catalan club are determined to reach their first Champions League final in a decade. They will need to deliver a composed and focused performance. They’ve been absolutely phenomenal throughout the season but all of their efforts in the Champions League could be lost if they fumble today.
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