Hansi Flick talks Cubarsi, Lewandowski, Kounde, de Jong after Crvena Zvezda 2-5 Barcelona | OneFootball

Hansi Flick entered the legendary “Little Maracana” with a confident smile, showing his familiarity with the intimidating setting.

Having led Bayern to a memorable 6-0 win over Red Star back in 2019, Flick was no stranger to the challenges of this venue. Now at the helm of Barcelona, he was determined to lead his team to another victory.

He had prepared his players thoroughly, urging them to press hard and seize control from the very start. The strategy paid off as Barcelona celebrated their seventh consecutive win and third in the Champions League campaign.

Flick’s take on the match

Hansi Flick is happy with the win. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

Reflecting on the match, Flick focused on the significance of securing three valuable points. The Champions League, he acknowledged, is a tough competition, especially for teams playing away from home.

“The most important thing is the three points. It is not easy to win away from home in this competition. The Champions League is difficult,” he began saying.

Flick expressed his satisfaction with the way Barcelona controlled the game, praising his squad’s ball-handling skills and pressing tactics. It was clear that he valued the consistent improvements in their performance.

“I am very happy, I really appreciate what we are doing. We were very good with the ball and we pressed a lot.”

How is Pau Cubarsi?

Pau Cubarsi required stitches. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

One talking point of the night was young Pau Cubarsi, who suffered a minor injury that required stitches.

Flick confirmed that the youngster was recovering well and reassured that he is young and resilient, handling the injury with optimism.

“Cubarsi is fine, he’s been given stitches, but he’s young. When you get older it’s not good, but now it is. They gave him stitches,” he said.

Flick also took the opportunity to congratulate Robert Lewandowski, who scored twice in the match, bringing him closer to a major career milestone with 99 Champions League goals.

Flick humorously admitted that if he had realised Lewandowski was so close to his 100th goal, he might have left him on the pitch a bit longer.

“If I had known, I might not have changed him,” he joked.

Nonetheless, Flick was highly satisfied with Lewandowski’s contribution and shifted his focus to the team’s upcoming match against Real Sociedad.

“I honestly don’t think about it. He was very good today. We have to think about other games, like the one in San Sebastian. I’m very happy.”

Thoughts on Jules Kounde and Frenkie de Jong

Jules Kounde provided two assists. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

Jules Kounde emerged as another standout performer, delivering three vital assists that underlined his growth this season.

Flick praised the Frenchman’s professionalism, noting how he has improved with each match and consistently demonstrated focus and dedication in both training and competition.

According to Flick, Kounde serves as a role model for the entire squad, embodying the drive and commitment that the team needs.

“He is a good example for the whole team. He is improving a lot this season. He is growing in each of his performances. He is a very professional footballer, always focused on matches and training. I appreciate that he has made these assists.”

The match also saw Frenkie de Jong make his first start after seven months, which Flick deemed crucial for the team’s balance.

De Jong, Flick noted, brought stability, linking the defence and attack effectively. This performance marked a promising step forward, showing Barcelona’s depth and readiness for the challenges ahead.

“It was important that he played. He gives stability between defence and attack,” concluded the manager.

Source: AS