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FC Barcelona cruised to a stunning 4-1 victory over Villarreal earlier today at the Spotify Camp Nou, riding on a brilliant hat-trick from Lamine Yamal.
The teenage sensation scored twice in the first period before adding another one after the half-time break. Robert Lewandowski then netted the fourth in stoppage time to add more sheen to the scoreline.
Flick happy
Speaking to the media after the match, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed happiness with how things had gone today at the Spotify Camp Nou.
“We needed the confidence. I’m happy with the result and the performance, although we could have scored a few more goals. Everyone played well. Playing with the ball was important,” he said.
“Also, the finishing touch that we lacked in matches like the one against Real Sociedad,” Flick added.
On whether this sets the team up to pull off a comeback against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg, he stated:
“Coming back from four goals down against Atletico is difficult, but we won’t give up against Atletico; we’ll fight.”
Talking about Lamine’s performance and his comments about how he was not happy with some things a few weeks ago, Flick elaborated:
“When you score a goal, everything is easier. And for Lamine, the situation is also that he’s very young. He has to improve, but he also has a lot of quality.
“Opponents often put two or three players on him. And sometimes he lacks the confidence and dynamism to take on defenders one-on-one. And if he enjoys himself, it’s good for us, of course.
“Everyone saw his performance today. He came on with the score at 1-0, and what happened from then on was exceptional.”
The star of the show. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Pedri was left out of the starting lineup by Flick today, but made things happen after he came on as a substitute.
“Pedri is a special case. For us, he’s an important player because he gives us structure and controls the ball. Yes, we’re thinking he could start on Tuesday. We’ll see,” he said about the midfielder.
On why Barcelona were able to not give away many chances to Villarreal today, the manager explained:
“When you lose possession, winning it back is crucial. Otherwise, you’ll suffer. And that’s what we wanted to see. We’ve taken a step forward in that area as well.
“We’ve had dynamism and intensity in our duels. And that’s what we need. For everyone to reach that level.”
Talking about his heated exchange with Villarreal boss Marcelino on the touchline during the game, Flick said:
“We spoke at the end of the match. We kicked the ball out of play twice, and I expected that from the opposition. But it’s a nerve-wracking moment, and I respect them. It’s just the heat of the moment. I got a yellow card, and I deserved it.”
The manager also explained why Marc Bernal started today ahead of Marc Casado, saying:
“Casado missed a day of training this week, and yesterday he couldn’t do much even though he trained. Ultimately, Bernal is a bit ahead of us right now, and he played well today.
“He’s also scored goals and is giving us good structure. It’s important for us to keep possession and switch to the wings. I like what I see when he plays at this level.”
On being asked if Gavi would be ready for the next game against Atletico, he replied: “It’s early.”
Concluding, Flick passed on a message to the fans ahead of the cup semifinal, as he said:
“Let them fight with us. Anything is possible in football.”
Source: AS