Ter Stegen, Cubarsi, Pedri react after Barcelona 2-3 Villarreal – ‘Flick deserves the credit’ | OneFootball

Marc-Andre ter Stegen had a day to remember at Montjuïc as he joined his Barcelona teammates to celebrate their La Liga triumph.

Though he could not do much during the 2-3 loss to Villarreal, the German goalkeeper started only his second game since recovering from a serious knee injury.

As team captain, he was given the honour of lifting the La Liga trophy, an emotional moment for him after months away from the pitch.

“These are moments when you enjoy yourself like never before. I’ve already won a few titles with this club, but this one has been very special. It fills us all with happiness. I’m happy to be back on the pitch and always better, winning titles,” he noted.

The 33-year-old also took time to highlight the impact of Hansi Flick, who led the team to glory in his first season in charge. “We’ve tried to follow everything he asked of us,” he said. “He deserves credit for a great season.”

Although Barcelona fell just short in the Champions League, Ter Stegen made it clear they are hungry for more. “We came so close. We felt we deserved more in Europe, but overall, we had a fantastic season. The fans deserve more celebrations, and we’ll try again next year.”

Cubarsi and Pedri take the stage

Pau Cubarsi praised his fellow defenders. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

After Ter Stegen’s words, young defender Pau Cubarsi took the spotlight. He praised his fellow defenders, especially Inigo Martinez.

“Inigo is an excellent value: we have made a great duo, but the others such as Ronald, Andreas and Eric, have also done a spectacular job,” analysed the defender.

Cubarsi also spoke highly of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who scored a stunning goal against Villarreal. “He should just play like he’s in the schoolyard. That’s when he’s at his best,” he said with a smile.

Pedri, another key figure this season, said, “It’s been one of my best years. I feel great physically, and the bond with the fans has grown stronger.”

With his name now being mentioned in Ballon d’Or discussions, Pedri remained humble: “I’d love to win it one day, but what matters most is the team. We want to win everything together.”

Barcelona’s season may not have ended with European silverware, but it was still full of promise, growth, and belief in what lies ahead.

Source: Mundo Deportivo