Barça's Mood Swing: Flick's Mixed Feelings and a Prodigy's Echo
28 November 2025
Flick's Mixed Emotions Ahead of Alavés Clash
Barça coach Hansi Flick says his feelings are mixed after a heavy defeat to Chelsea in the Champions League and before the La Liga match against Deportivo Alavés on Saturday.
In a Friday press conference, he admitted the defeat was painful and that everyone is frustrated, but he remains hopeful about the upcoming match.
He added that scoring goals remains essential and that Alavés defend with grit and energy; beating them will be tough, but he believes Barça can secure the three points.
Asked why he is optimistic, Flick argued that it is easy to point to a poor performance, but the team must press as a unit; it's not only about defenders — the forwards and midfielders must press as well, which is exactly the approach he wants to reinforce.
He stressed that blaming defenders alone is unfair; without effective front-foot pressing, problems arise, but he is encouraged by what the group did well and believes the attack can improve, especially under high-press.
The coach confirmed that he wants to see the training-ground reality translated on match day, noting that Pedri, Rafinha, and Yamal will contribute more, with occasional instructions as needed.
Flick also noted Ronald Araújo's absence for the Alavés game due to a stomach virus, which kept him from training for two days.
On tactics, he explained moving Erik García into midfield instead of Marc Casado, saying Erik can play multiple roles and that Christensen is being tested there as well to strengthen height in the central area.
He reaffirmed trust in Marc Casado and Marc Bernal, stating they will receive opportunities upon return from injury.
Regarding Fermín López, Flick said the issue isn't serious; he felt some discomfort after the Chelsea match, a common risk in football, while boot changes can also cause minor niggles as players switch footwear regularly.
For Alavés, Flick expects Pedri to feature in the second half and suggested Christensen as a midfield option if needed.
When asked about January signings, he said his focus remains on the available squad and winning the upcoming fixtures.
Turning to his attacking duo, Flick praised Rafinha as among the team's most focused players and highlighted Yamal's potential; he acknowledged Yamal's frustration at being substituted but reminded that players seldom leave a bench happier than before.
Finally, he praised Kokoria, Chelsea's left-back, as one of the world's best in the position and added that Yamal will have another chance to put the Chelsea episode behind him.
Barça's coach even joked that Lamine Yamal reminds him of his younger self, except with shinier hair and better social media presence.
Sniper-style punchline 1: If pressing were a weapon, Flick would patent a high-velocity press—crowd-sources not included.
Sniper-style punchline 2: Yamal is so bright the scoreboard needs sunglasses; defense, bring a hat and sunblock.
