Hansi Flick Addresses Raphinha, Gavi, Balde and Christensen Ahead of Barcelona vs Aston Villa
Barcelona return to UEFA Champions League action tomorrow when they welcome Aston Villa to Spotify Camp Nou, looking to respond after their defeat to reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Hansi Flick’s side head into the fixture following a convincing victory over Alaves in La Liga. However, the German coach knows that another difficult challenge awaits against Unai Emery’s organised Aston Villa team.
With Barcelona targeting a place in the competition’s top eight, securing three points will be important to their ambitions.
Ahead of the encounter, Flick addressed the media during his pre-match press conference, discussing the club’s injury situation, his players’ performances and the challenges posed by Aston Villa. He also provided updates on Alejandro Balde, Gavi, Andreas Christensen and Raphinha.
Flick Discusses Barcelona’s Injuries and Aston Villa Challenge
Flick began by acknowledging the difficulties caused by the number of injuries within his squad, insisting that the coaching staff were doing everything possible to manage the situation.
“When you’re dealing with injuries, you have to stay focused, and we’re doing well,” he explained.
The Barcelona manager was also satisfied with the team's overall performance against Alaves, despite a late mistake.
“There was a mistake at the end – that happens sometimes – but I saw good work and conviction,” Flick said.
He also provided an update on Andreas Christensen, who had returned to some training activities.
“We’ll have to wait and see. He trained yesterday, but only on positional work. He’s fine, but we’ll have to wait until the weekend.”
Barcelona face Atletico Madrid at the weekend, but Flick made it clear that his immediate attention was on Aston Villa.
“I’m focusing on Aston Villa. Unai Emery is one of the best managers in Europe; they have a very clear idea of how to play both in defence and attack. It’ll be a tough match. The Champions League is special and the opposition are top-class.”
Flick also praised Emery’s tactical organisation and the way his team approach matches.
“I really like the way his team play – they’re confident on the ball and when building from the back, and I like their defensive structure.
“They’ve got everything very well organised. Jackson is performing at an incredible level. It’ll be a tough match against a great manager.”
Flick Sends Reassuring Message to Alejandro Balde
Alejandro Balde’s reduced playing time has attracted considerable attention, with speculation growing that the left-back could consider leaving Barcelona during the January transfer window.
However, Flick insisted that the defender remains part of his plans and suggested that a lack of regular football has affected his confidence.
“What’s happening to him is normal; when you don’t play often, you lack confidence. I see him training well, but we have to decide what’s best for the team, and Joao Cancelo is in great form,” he said.
The German coach revealed that he had spoken directly with Balde following his previous press conference, emphasising his desire to help the young defender regain his confidence.
“When I say he lacks confidence, I know it can affect him, and I spoke to him after the last press conference. I respect him a lot; he’s young, but he’s a great person and a very hard worker. I’ll help him regain his confidence.”
Flick’s comments suggest that Balde has not been forgotten, although the competition for places at left-back remains an important factor in his selection decisions.
Gavi Remains an Option Despite Limited Playing Time
Gavi’s situation was another subject raised during the press conference.
The midfielder has struggled to secure consistent minutes this season, leading to questions about his role under Flick. Nevertheless, the Barcelona manager reiterated his appreciation of the youngster’s quality.
“We all know his quality and Gavi is always an option, but once the match starts that option might disappear and you can’t always stick to your initial plan. I’ve spoken to him and the important thing is that he has confidence,” Flick explained.
The comments indicate that Flick still considers Gavi an important option, even if his involvement has been limited by tactical decisions and competition within the squad.
Flick Defends Barcelona’s Performances Against Elite Opposition
Barcelona have faced criticism following defeats against Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, with questions raised about their ability to deliver against the strongest opponents.
Flick disagreed with the suggestion that his team had failed to compete at the highest level, arguing that both matches could have produced different results.
“No, against Real Madrid the result could have been different, and the same against PSG. At this level, anything can happen. We’ve won 11 matches in a row.
“You’re focusing on the two defeats. But I have faith in my team. We need to focus on Aston Villa and the Champions League. We want to be among the top eight.”
The Barcelona coach also acknowledged that the defeats had overshadowed the team's impressive run of 11 consecutive vi