
HANSI FLICK
Will there be any changes in the lineup? Flick issues a warning before the match against Sevilla
Published:8/02/2025 - 14:24h
Updated:9/02/2025 - 19:54h
Hansi Flick appeared at a press conference before the match against Sevilla. The German did not rule out any significant returns to the lineup and played coy about his renewal.
FC Barcelona will face a key match for their aspirations in LaLiga EA Sports next Sunday against Sevilla. In the lead-up to the match, Hansi Flick spoke to the media at a press conference and, in addition to sharing his feelings ahead of the team's visit to the Sánchez-Pizjuán, he left the door open for some important returns to the lineup and played coy about his renewal.
"I know that the atmosphere in Sevilla is incredible, it's very beautiful, it was also like that at the beginning in Valencia, but we want to play our football, that's what matters," the coach began saying about the match against the Andalusians, before stating that both Gavi, Dani Olmo, and Iñigo Martínez could have a place in the lineup now that they have recovered from their respective injuries.
"Everyone can play, we'll see what happens."
Regarding the great moment of Barça, unbeaten so far in 2025, Flick stated that "what is important is that we now have a balance in the performance of the players. There are not just 11 or 12 performing, but everyone is performing similarly. This gives us many options as a coaching staff and allows us to manage the loads. At this point in the season, this is very important. Everyone can play and we can choose. Tomorrow we also need fresh legs."
"We have 17 or 18 players who can play many minutes, I say this because I am very happy and there is a great atmosphere. Everyone wants to shine and show how good they are, that is fantastic," he added.
The Madrid derby and the week without Champions
The German also spoke about his planning for a week in which they will not play any matches as they are directly qualified for the Champions League round of 16. "After Sevilla, we will see how we manage it. It is important to have a few days of rest for the body and the mind. We will not play until Monday and we have time to train. It is good to have a week without matches," he commented.
Likewise, he assured that he will be attentive to the derby between Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid, as the result will be crucial for Barça in the fight for LaLiga. "First, I will watch Barça B, then I will have dinner, and if I have time, I will watch it. It is an interesting match because they are two of the best in Europe and I will probably watch it," he stated.
The recovery of Ter Stegen and the ostracism of Ansu Fati
Regarding the physical condition of Marc-André Ter Stegen, Flick, who did not want to reveal too many details, was extremely optimistic, stating that "Ter Stegen's condition is private information, you have to talk to the doctors. We are happy. He has already started working with Dela, everything is going well, he has improved a lot."
On the other hand, when asked about the situation of Ansu Fati and whether they have discussed his possible departure from the team, the coach confessed that "we have talked. Sometimes you talk and then you play, but it’s not always like that. We have all the players except Ter Stegen and Bernal. Ansu has improved, he has enhanced things and is on the right track. We will see tomorrow."
The breakthroughs of Eric García and Ferran Torres
The coach referred to the good form of Ferran Torres, who just scored a 'hat-trick' in Valencia, and revealed who will be the '9' in Sevilla. "Ferran can play in several positions. As a center forward, Lewandowski will play against Sevilla. I am very happy with Ferran, his last month was not easy -due to injury-. He is back, he is very professional, works hard, and is playing with a lot of confidence as a center forward," he asserted.
Additionally, he praised Eric García, commenting that "with the ball, he is helping us a lot. He also helps us as a pivot, depending on the situation. He is very flexible and that is very useful for the team. He has been performing very well in the last matches, he looks very happy, and we are happy with him. Let's see how it goes from here to the end of the season."
His renewal and the referees
Regarding his possible renewal with Barça, Flick, who has a contract until 2026, cleared the air by stating that "I am happy at the club, with the players, with a lot of progress and with many people from the academy, but right now there is no talk of extending the contract. I still have another year and that is a lot for a coach."
Finally, when asked if he would like referees to explain their decisions after matches, the German stated that "sometimes it would be good, yes, but they make their decision and they will not change it. Maybe to understand them better, it would be good. I know their job is hard, when something needs to change, I will be open to it."