Barcelona forward highlights difference between Guardiola and Flick – ‘He shows a lot of care…’ | OneFootball

Barcelona forward Ferran Torres has opened up in an interview with El Pais (h/t SPORT), offering insight into his development, the role of Hansi Flick in his progress, and how he now sees himself as a centre-forward – a position he once never imagined playing.

A winger by trade, Ferran has largely been used as a No. 9 by Flick this season – a move that has reaped rewards for Barcelona, with the Spaniard ably filling in as Robert Lewandowski’s backup and enjoying the best-ever season of his career.

Indeed, Ferran has bagged 19 goals and four assists from 44 games this season, playing a key role in the success that the Catalans have achieved thus far.

‘Never imagined playing as a No. 9’

Opening up on his development and adaptation in the centre-forward position, Ferran gave credit to Flick as well as his former manager at Manchester City, Pep Guardiola.

“I never thought I could be a No. 9 until I started with Pep [Guardiola]. And I also got a lot of help from Hansi [Flick],” said Ferran.

“I’m not a typical No. 9 either. I’ve been a winger all my life, but now I believe that’s where I make the most of my qualities,” the Barcelona forward added.

When asked to point out the differences between Guardiola and Flick and how they operate, the Spanish international replied:

“They are winners and know how to manage a top team. But Flick is more approachable, he is interested in how you are doing in everything.

“And something very important: he shows a lot of care for those who play less, so that they don’t lose motivation and are ready when their time comes. This season has helped me to confirm that I am a No. 9.”

On what it feels like playing as No. 9

Further discussing his new role as a No. 9 and what it feels like playing in the centre-forward position, Ferran stated: “It’s the position where I perform best. It’s not just about scoring.”

Ferran excelling as a centre-forward. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Reflecting on his relationship with goal-scoring, Ferran explained the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the role, saying:

“It affects me a lot, I won’t deny it. You can have a great game, and if you don’t score, you’re left with a thorn in your side. And if you score but miss chances, you also feel that you could have done more. But you have to know how to live with that.

“And you have to be clear that you can’t score in every game. More than obsessing, it’s addictive. It’s addictive. When you score, you want to do it again. You have to work so that it doesn’t have a negative effect on your performance.”

Torres also addressed the perception that he is sometimes overlooked, despite delivering solid performances, as he said:

“Maybe. There are people who are more talked about and have the same numbers as me. But it doesn’t bother me, I do my job. I’m calm because I give one hundred percent, and that’s reflected on the pitch.

“I’m also aware that Barça are one of the best clubs in the world and there is competition. We have to accept that, take the positives and improve.”

Torres admitted that, at times, it has felt like people believed he was not good enough for Barcelona, but he does not let it affect him.

“They still say that today. But I feel qualified. I always have. Talking from the outside is very easy. I live it every day,” concluded Ferran.