Barça visited Vallecas under the pressure of a difficult match. The field was far from perfect and the absence of VAR made referee Mateo Busquets's job even harder. Despite these circumstances, Hansi Flick didn't look for excuses.
The German coach was self-critical with his team, acknowledged the mistakes, and praised the opponent. "Playing here is always complicated, but we have to play better," he said. For Hansi, it wasn't just the state of the field or the lack of technology, "There are no excuses, we have to control the ball more and have more possession," he stated.
The figure of the opposing goalkeeper
One of the protagonists of the match was Joan Garcia, Rayo Vallecano's goalkeeper, and Hansi Flick didn't hesitate to praise him. "He played a fantastic match, he's quick, confident with and without the ball, it's wonderful to watch him play," he commented. For the culé coach, his signing was a wise decision.
Rayo took advantage of its opportunities and Barça couldn't score a second goal in the first half. Hansi Flick highlighted that the opponent "played fantastically." For him, the result is not only Rayo's merit, but also a consequence of Barça's ball losses.
Internal criticism: the team's mistakes
Hansi Flick pointed out that the lack of intensity was evident. "I agree with Lamine about the intensity, but we made too many mistakes," he explained. The coach insisted on the need to improve play under pressure.
The German also highlighted the work of Iñigo, Rayo Vallecano's coach. "He does an unbelievable job with this team, I already said it yesterday in the press conference," Flick noted.
Egos and the team culture
Beyond technical mistakes, Hansi Flick spoke about a deeper problem. According to him, individual egos can destroy the team. "Last year we played and worked as a team, the most important thing is that there are no egos because this kills the team's success," he stated.
The coach took the opportunity to remind his players that, while some leave with their national teams, unity and discipline remain priorities. Flick made it clear that he doesn't want internal conflicts to affect performance.
Uncertain future and transfer market
Hansi Flick also avoided commenting on Fermín López and his possible move to Chelsea. "Today we have to talk about the team, not the players. When the market closes, the important thing is that everyone is with the team," he indicated.
The message is clear: Barça needs stability, focus, and unity. Without this, problems can multiply, as in the match against Rayo. Flick aims to correct mistakes, control egos, and regain intensity so the team can be competitive again.