Hansi Flick praises Raphinha's work and anticipates Pedri's return to the XI against Atlético

Published New:29/11/2025 - 20:25h

Updated New:29/11/2025 - 20:25h

Hansi Flick valued the performances of Raphinha and Olmo against Alavés (3-1). The Brazilian returned to the starting XI with an assist, while the player from Terrassa scored a brace

FC Barcelona secured their fourth consecutive victory in LaLiga with a comeback against Alavés (3-1). In the post-match press conference, Hansi Flick praised the contributions of Raphinha and Dani Olmo, two of the key figures of the day alongside Lamine Yamal.

The Brazilian played 60 minutes at a notable level as a left winger. **He made the passes that led to the first two Barça goals**, although statistics only credit him with one assist because, in the play for the 1-1 scored by Lamine, the ball deflected off Lewandowski.

Regarding Rapha's performance, Flick acknowledged that the '11' brings a different dynamism to Barça's attack. "He is very important because he has great intensity and when he starts pressing, it makes everyone else press too. He has to improve in the coming games, but it's fantastic that he's back," argued the German coach

Praise for Dani Olmo and Gerard Martín

Similarly, the manager applauded Olmo's performance. The Terrassa native once again played as the team's attacking midfielder due to Fermín López's absence and delivered a standout performance, scoring a couple of goals and creating up to five chances.

In this regard, Flick revealed some of the advice he has given Dani to help him regain his confidence, as his performance in recent months has suffered a slump.

"I think everyone knows Dani is fantastic. Sometimes, he wants more and to take that next step before the first one. He also overthinks things, I've told him that. I tell him to enjoy the game because you're very good," said the Barça coach.

Likewise, Hansi Flick acknowledged the contribution of **Gerard Martín**. For the second consecutive match, the 23-year-old defender played as a center-back and did so well, covering Alejandro Balde's back and supporting Pau Cubarsí in the center.

"He gives us a lot of options. I love how he has improved, his attitude, his mentality... he works well in training, in the gym... I'm very happy to have him on the team."

And, regarding Marc Bernal, the Barça coach acknowledged the importance of giving him his first start. "It's a first step and it gives him confidence. We need all the players. His evolution is very positive."

Pedri could return to the starting lineup in Barça-Atlético

On the other hand, Flick was very satisfied with the return of Pedri González. The midfielder played half an hour after being out for a month with a left thigh injury, and the coaching staff does not rule out counting on him as a starter next Tuesday against Atlético, also at Spotify Camp Nou.

"We'll see, let's see tomorrow in recovery. We don't have many days left. But Pedri is fine, I've asked him," explained the German coach. Regarding the match, the coach believes that, although Barça wasted many opportunities to seal the score earlier, the general feelings were positive against Alavés.

"We improve after every game and victory. And this season is going well, with four wins in a row, but we can't be content with them. We have to improve," pointed out Hansi Flick, who already has 57 wins in 79 games as Barça coach.