Hansi Flick Delighted After Watching Barcelona Stars Shine at Wembley
Hansi Flick may have been away from Barcelona during the international break, but the German manager was still keeping a close eye on his squad.
Flick travelled to Wembley to watch the UEFA Nations League meeting between England and Spain, a match that featured several of his Barcelona players.
Spain eventually secured a thrilling 3-2 victory, with Lamine Yamal opening the scoring and Anthony Gordon also finding the net for England.
For Flick, however, the result was less important than what he saw from his players.
Flick Watches His Barcelona Stars in Action
According to Mundo Deportivo, Flick was present at Wembley to personally observe several members of his squad.
The fixture gave him the opportunity to watch Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Rodri, Dani Olmo, Pedri and Anthony Gordon compete against each other on one of football's biggest stages.
It turned into an especially encouraging evening for the Barcelona boss.
Yamal scored, Gordon responded for England and Olmo provided an assist, giving Flick several reasons to be pleased with the performances of his players.
Watching them perform against high-level international opposition also provided the German with valuable information ahead of Barcelona's demanding schedule.
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Lamine Yamal Continues to Shine
Once again, Yamal was one of the biggest talking points.
The Barcelona teenager opened the scoring at Wembley and continued his remarkable run of form for both club and country.
His performances have also kept him firmly involved in the Ballon d'Or conversation.
Yamal has previously made it clear that he does not believe his age should influence how his performances are judged.
For Flick, having a player capable of producing decisive moments against elite opposition is another major asset heading into the next stage of the season.
Gordon Provides Another Positive
Anthony Gordon also gave Flick something to smile about.
The new Barcelona signing scored England's second goal and showed the attacking qualities that convinced the Catalan club to bring him to Spain.
Gordon's ability to attack space, carry the ball forward and make dangerous runs has already made him an intriguing addition to Flick's squad.
Although England ultimately lost, his goal will provide another boost to his confidence before returning to Barcelona.
One Concern for Flick
The international break was not completely positive, however.
Eric García was withdrawn from the Spain squad after experiencing fresh discomfort.
Barcelona will now monitor the defender carefully, particularly given the importance of his versatility to Flick's team.
García has been managed carefully since returning to action, and the club will want to ensure that the latest issue does not develop into a more serious problem.
Flick Has Plenty to Be Encouraged About
Overall, the Wembley trip provided Flick with plenty of reasons to feel positive.
His players were involved in goals, assists and high-level performances against strong international opposition.
Most importantly, several key Barcelona players appear to be carrying their excellent club form onto the international stage.
With a demanding run of fixtures waiting after the break, Flick will need as many of his stars as possible performing at their best.
And judging by what he witnessed at Wembley, the Barcelona boss has plenty to look forward to.