Flick talks Lewandowski, Raphinha, Kounde, Torres, Carvajal after Alaves 0-3 Barcelona

Hansi Flick expressed his satisfaction following Barcelona’s convincing 3-0 win against Alaves, particularly highlighting the strong first-half performance.

The German coach was pleased with how the team responded after their recent setback against Osasuna, which had interrupted their positive run.

Flick emphasised that the win was crucial for maintaining their lead at the top of the table, putting them three points ahead of Real Madrid. With the international break approaching, securing this victory was exactly what they aimed for.

“It’s fantastic to win like this at half-time. Another good piece of news is that we kept a clean sheet. I really appreciate what the team did in the first half,” said the manager after the match as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

Flick praised the team’s ability to dominate in the first half, stating that they executed the game plan perfectly.

“We didn’t make any mistakes, we didn’t let Alavés play their game. It was the key to winning. 

“We told the team that it’s very important not to make mistakes and to keep in mind the game against Osasuna. The basis of the victory was that great first half,” he added.

Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha

Flick also singled out Robert Lewandowski for his brilliant performance, noting that the Polish striker still possesses the sharpness he had back in Munich.

In the penalty area, Lewandowski’s instincts remain unmatched, and the team’s support for him has only strengthened his presence.

“Everyone supported him and looked for his passes. He’s the same player I met in Munich, the only one I know, and in the penalty area, he’s the best. He’s always ready to score.”

He also words reserved for Raphinha, calling him a dynamic and top-level player. Flick pointed out that while Raphinha didn’t manage to score, his leadership and influence were crucial throughout the game.

“He’s the captain and that’s good for him, he’s incredible. He’s very dynamic, at a top level, he could have scored a goal.” 

On the subject of Barcelona’s fierce trident, Flick said, “We haven’t worked on the chemistry.

“Of course, we’ve worked on the connection, it’s normal. In every training session, game… the dynamic they have is incredible. Fantastic. That they score so many goals is fantastic. That connection is good,” he explained.

Words on injuries

Meanwhile, Flick was also asked about the expulsion of Jules Kounde, to which he said, “Kounde did not play because he was rested.”

On the topic of injuries, Flick addressed Ferran Torres’ muscle issue, mentioning that further medical tests would be conducted in Barcelona to determine the severity. Early indications suggest it might be a tear in the femoral biceps of his right leg.

“We have to wait for the medical tests for Ferran Torres,” he mentioned.

“We hope to recover the injured players, we will see in the next two weeks and we hope to return in very good shape.”

Flick also took the opportunity to wish Dani Carvajal a speedy recovery after his serious injury sustained against Villarreal, showing respect for a fellow player in the football community.

“I wish Dani the best, on behalf of Barcelona.” 

Looking ahead

Looking ahead, Flick stressed the importance of the upcoming international break, hoping to recover injured players and return in good form.

He downplayed comparisons between his time at Bayern Munich and his current role at Barcelona, stating that every team and situation is unique.

He is focused on maintaining a positive atmosphere within the squad and taking things step by step to ensure continued success.

“I don’t like comparisons, they are different situations and teams. I’m happy to be here and to be the coach. But in football, things can change quickly. We are focused. We are focused on the next matches,” he noted.