Ahead of Barcelona’s pivotal Champions League clash against Brest, head coach Hansi Flick dismissed suggestions that his team’s recent struggles are due to a decline in physical fitness.
Instead, he highlighted the challenges of guiding a youthful squad through a demanding season.
Flick pointed out that Barcelona boasts one of the youngest teams in LaLiga, which comes with unique obstacles, especially in high-pressure scenarios.
He said: “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.
“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.
Flick & Co. pic.twitter.com/CgKVIw5z63
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 25, 2024
“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.
“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.”
Flick also addressed the need for better coordination between Barcelona’s attack and defense. He called for the team to work as a unit to ensure both defensive stability and offensive efficiency.
“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.
“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.
