Hansi Flick: 'Most important is how we play as a team'
FC Barcelona are prepared for another test in La Liga with Hansi Flick facing the media on Sunday ahead of Monday's home game against Rayo Vallecano. The Barça was keen to stress the good atmosphere in the dressing room and the importance of the team over the individual. "In a season a lot of things can happen. Right now we are doing well, playing well and in form. But, in the end it's all down to how we play as a team, not just one or two players. It's important to be connected and have team spirit," outlined the German coach.
Leaders, young players and playing time
Flick was asked about Raphinha's good start to the season: "When he plays as a 9 he's the one who has to start pressing and he does it really well. He is one of the leaders out on the field and his finishing at the moment is really good." The Barça boss said the same of Fermín: "He was there to score at the end of the last game and that is really positive."
The Barça boss reminded everyone that patience is key for Lamine Yamal after his participation in the World Cup came just after his recovery from injury: "In training he is excellent and he is on the right path and we have to support him. In the first game he played an hour and in the second all 90."
On Frenkie de Jong's return the coach stressed the need to be cautious: "It's important to take it day by day. We have a tough season ahead of us and Frenkie is a great player and we need him."
Finally, Flick commented on the contribution of youngsters such as Hamza and Brian Fariñas so far this season and the work of Deco in the transfer window. "I am very happy with the squad. The most important thing for a coach is to see quality in the training sessions and at the moment I am," concluded Hansi Flick.