Barcelona coach Hansi Flick faced the press after the 6-1 victory over Olympiacos, addressing Lamine Yamal’s role in Sunday’s ‘Clasico’. The German expressed confidence in his player, stating he “always delivers when a big game comes around.”
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick stated on Tuesday that forward Lamine Yamal “always delivers when a big game comes around,” emphasising he has no doubts the player will perform well against Real Madrid next Sunday.
“Lamine has no issues. Winning and scoring goals is crucial for everyone, including him. Looking back at last year, Lamine Yamal always delivers in big matches. I have no doubts about him,” explained the German coach following the 6-1 victory over Olympiacos in the third matchday of the Champions League group stage.
Flick acknowledged that the ‘Clasico’ against Madrid “is always a significant match” and asserted that they will require “the highest level from all players, not just Lamine” to face “a fantastic team, as demonstrated at the start of this season.”
The German stressed that they will have to “be ready to fight” and admitted that Tuesday’s thrashing of Olympiacos “should instil confidence” in his players.
“We’re in a different situation compared to last season, but I always think positively. We’ve shown we can win in Madrid. We have a good team, and perhaps two players will return,” he stated.
When asked about Fermin, who scored a hat-trick, he highlighted that the Andalusian had “a sensational game” and that the first of his three goals was “very important” in “giving the team confidence.” “He’s a player who has everything. He’s dynamic, good on the ball, and in front of goal, and he gives us the speed we need,” he analysed.
Furthermore, Flick refrained from commenting on the referee’s performance, which was criticised by Mendilibar, although he admitted that “perhaps” Santiago Hezze’s dismissal influenced the final result. “I understand his frustration, but I don’t like to talk about referees,” he added.
The Barcelona coach noted that his team initially had “problems playing out from the back” due to Olympiacos’ pressure but stressed that “the final result was clear.”
Regarding Dro Fernandez, who debuted in the Champions League, he said that he is “a great talent from La Masia,” and also praised Marcus Rashford.
“He won a penalty and could have earned a second. In the end, he scored two goals and was important. He always gives 100%. He can play in different positions. He’s quick, combines well, and is a good striker in the box. It’s good to have him with us,” he said about the Englishman.
