Flick talks Olmo, Gavi, Yamal, Lewandowski, Martin after Barcelona 4-0 Real Sociedad | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed his satisfaction after his team delivered an emphatic 4-0 victory against Real Sociedad.

The German coach highlighted the attacking intent of his squad, emphasising their hunger to score goals and their commitment to an offensive style of play.

He also acknowledged an improvement in defensive organisation compared to recent matches, while maintaining that the quality of his players never ceases to impress him.

A well-deserved win

Flick was delighted with the result and performance of his team, stating that although Real Sociedad are a strong side, Barcelona fully deserved the win.

He admitted that the red card changed the course of the match, but his players took full advantage of the situation by dominating proceedings and securing a convincing scoreline.

“I’m very happy. The red card changed everything but, in the end, we forced them. They are a very good team, but we deserved it,” he began saying.

The secret behind Barcelona’s goal-scoring form

Barcelona are on a scoring spree. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

With Barcelona having netted 124 goals in just 40 matches under his management, Flick attributed the impressive attacking output to the team’s positive approach.

He pointed out that his players always aim to push forward and create as many chances as possible. He also noted that their positional awareness played a key role in breaking down Real Sociedad’s defence.

“We like to play like this. We attack as much as possible. It’s good to have that attitude. Today I think we occupied the right positions. But today it’s true that the red card helped us.”

Tactical adjustments and Gavi’s absence

Flick revealed that he had originally planned to start Gavi in the match, but the midfielder was unable to play due to feeling unwell.

“Honestly, I had thought of starting with Gavi, but he felt some discomfort. He wasn’t feeling well and we changed the plan. That’s why Olmo played.”

Gavi had reported a fever the previous day, and while he did take part in the warm-up, the coaching staff decided not to risk him. As a result, Dani Olmo was brought into the starting lineup in his place.

“Yesterday he told us that he had a fever and we had to take that into account. He has warmed up, but we decided that it was not necessary to take any risks,” he explained.

Lamine Yamal’s goal drought in La Liga

Lamine Yamal is yet to score in La Liga since October. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Despite not scoring in La Liga since October 2024, Lamine Yamal continues to contribute in other ways, according to Flick.

The manager praised the young talent’s creativity and willingness to take risks in the final third.

He reassured that goals would eventually come for Yamal, but what matters most is his overall contribution to the team’s attacking play.

“He makes a lot of passes. The day he scores will come back, it’s natural. Because he tries new things, he tries, but the rivals also do their job.

“Lamine is on the right track. It doesn’t matter who scores, it’s the team that does it.”

Lewandowski’s consistency

Flick acknowledged Robert Lewandowski’s ability to consistently find the back of the net.

He pointed out that while the striker may have benefited from some favourable circumstances, his instinct to be in the right position at the right time is crucial for the team.

“Scoring is always important for a number nine. It’s true that he’s had some luck, but he’s always there and that’s important for him.”

Gerard Martin’s performance and Balde’s minutes

Gerard Martin was on the scoresheet. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The Barcelona coach was particularly pleased with Gerard Martin’s display, describing it as an outstanding performance.

He commended the player for his improvement and growing confidence, which was evident in his contributions during the match.

Flick also mentioned that Alejandro Balde was given significant minutes, allowing him to rest against Real Sociedad.

“He played extraordinarily well today. It’s nice for them, they deserve it. He’s improved. They have confidence. Balde had a lot of minutes,” he noted.

Source: AS