Hansi Flick talks Fermín, Araújo, Raphinha, after 1-4 Barcelona win over Sevilla | OneFootball

FC Barcelona capitalized on the points dropped by Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid on Saturday, securing a victory over Sevilla to move within just one point of second place, currently occupied by Los Colchoneros.

Hansi Flick was naturally delighted with the 4-1 win that his side got last night, particularly so because his team had to play almost the entire second half with a numerical disadvantage because of Fermin Lopez’s expulsion.

As Mundo Deportivo has reported, the German tactician also talked to the media after the game, and expressed his happiness with his team’s performance:

“I really appreciate our game. In the first half, we played well, but in the second half, we fought for the three points.”

Flick particularly praised his team’s ability to defend against a good Sevilla attack despite their numerical disadvantage:

“It’s very different from what we’re used to playing. We played very well. We also defended well. On the wings, they have great players, and we defended them well. I’m very happy about that.”

The Barcelona coach also took away some silver linings from Fermín’s expulsion:

“He scored a very important goal, and then these things happen. We were pressing high, and the intensity was very good, but it can happen. He helped us with his goal, and it’s a good lesson for us to play with a 4-4-1 and defend that way.”

Hansi Flick also acknowledged that his team is one of the top sides in La Liga:

“We also scored the 4-1 from a set piece, and everything went the right way… in La Liga, there are three, four, or five very good teams, and we are one of them.”

The German coach highlighted the importance of the second and third goals scored by the team:

“Fermín’s goal was very important. It gave us confidence and allowed us to believe in what we were doing. Of course, Rapha’s goal was also very important.”

Barcelona are once again quite close to the summit of La Liga with this win, but Flick was clear that the team will have to focus on itself rather than looking at the results of other teams:

“The situation is better than before, but in the end, we only focus on ourselves. We have to win our matches, that’s what matters. We don’t need to look at the others.”

Lastly, Flick explained that Araújo’s medical condition will not be clear till more detailed tests are taken today: “We have to wait until tomorrow, and we hope it’s not a serious injury.”

With this crucial La Liga victory, Flick’s side will now enjoy a rare period of rest, as their next game is scheduled for next Monday against Rayo Vallecano at the Montjuïc Stadium. Meanwhile, their arch-rivals will travel to England midweek to face Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League playoffs.