Hansi Flick’s was in a very contented mood after FC Barcelona’s 3–1 win over Alavés on on Saturday at the Spotify Camp Nou. “Given everything we did, we managed it well, and the three points were the most important thing,” said the German coach. Despite the victory, the Barça manager, always chasing excellence, insisted that they can “improve many more things and we are working on them.”

And the fixtures don’t stop. In fact, next Tuesday the blaugranes host Atlético Madrid, again at the Spotify Camp Nou, for another league match (9pm CET). Asked about his squad, Flick stressed that they need “all the players”.

Welcome back Pedri

Speaking about his players, the German praised Pedri’s return from injury: “He’s fine, which is the most important thing.”

He also highlighted Raphinha, back in the starting XI: “He showed how his intensity is good for the team.”

And he expressed his delight with Dani Olmo, both for his performance and his brace: “Everyone knows he’s a fantastic player,” said the Barça coach.

Flick also spoke about Marc Bernal, Marc Casadó, Eric Garcia and Gerard Martín. About Bernal, he noted: “He’s taken a big step. It’s very important for him to be able to play 45 minutes in La Liga.” Regarding Gerard Martín, who played the full 90 minutes at centre-back, he praised his professionalism: “I always see him working hard. I’m very pleased to have him in the team.”

As for Marc Casadó, he said he “is a very intelligent player” and that they need him “at his highest level”. Meanwhile, Eric Garcia, who was substituted at half-time after taking a blow to the face, was withdrawn because, Flick explained, they felt he “couldn’t continue playing with that pain.”

Força Barça