Hansi Flick had the opportunity to take part in the press conference before the match between FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, corresponding to matchday 18 of LaLiga EA Sports and marking the final commitment for the Blaugrana team in the year 2024. It is worth noting that in this encounter, the German coach will not be available on the bench due to serving a two-match suspension for his expulsion during the match against Real Betis (2-2).
Among other things, Hansi Flick was questioned about the perhaps unusual substitution of Robert Lewandowski in the match against CD Leganes (0-1). It should be remembered that in that match, the Warsaw 'killer' was substituted in the 66th minute when the score was still 0-1 in favor of the 'pepinero' team.
In this context, deciding to do without a key player like Robert Lewandowski, a major offensive figure for Barcelona (with 23 goals), might have seemed a somewhat controversial move and has sparked debate about why he is not completing all matches, given that he was also substituted in the match against Real Betis (2-2) in the 74th minute.
However, in response to this issue, Hansi Flick has chosen to put an end to any controversy and explained why this substitution was made, allowing Ferran Torres to enter. "In those situations, you have to make a decision. Ferran has been performing very well in previous matches, and after the game, everything is clearer and better. We will see how we react tomorrow," emphasized the German coach.
How will Barcelona cope with the absence of Lamine Yamal against Atletico Madrid?
Furthermore, when discussing the topic of his players, specifically regarding the absence of Lamine Yamal, Hansi Flick reiterated his full confidence in his squad and in the players who can fill in for the young Barcelona star. "We must accept the injury and his inability to play; another player will take his place. We have options in mind, but we have not yet decided who will do it," he concluded.