Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has hinted that there is a strong chance Lamine Yamal could feature in the match against Sevilla, though a final decision will be made closer to the game.
During his pre-match press conference, Flick touched on several key topics, including the condition of his squad and the potential involvement of players like Yamal, Gavi, Fermin Lopez, and Dani Olmo, as well as the situation with Wojciech Szczesny.
Regarding Yamal, Flick explained that he is being integrated step by step, and while it is likely he may play against Sevilla, the decision will ultimately be made tomorrow.
“Step by step. Tomorrow we have Sevilla. It’s an important match and the eleven will be the best to play against Sevilla,” the manager told the press.
“He might play, that’s the idea, we’ll see tomorrow. The rest has been very good for him. We want to thank the Spanish national team, they made an appropriate decision that has been very good for us.”
When discussing the communication with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) regarding Yamal, Flick recognised the delicate balance national team coaches must strike with players.
“I’ve been on the other side too. The coach has done what he wants. When players need to rest, they should do so. The Spanish national team has very good players and it’s not a problem if someone else plays.”
Szczesny and Pena
As for the goalkeeping situation, Szczesny’s readiness to play was acknowledged, but Flick was clear that Inaki Pena will be starting both the Sevilla match and next week’s game.
“It’s fine for him to say he’s ready, but there’s no reason for Inaki Pena not to play.”
Flick emphasised his satisfaction with Pena’s performances, indicating that Szczesny, while eager to return, won’t displace Pena at this moment.
“Pena will play tomorrow and next Wednesday. And I would add that we are happy that Szczesny is ready to play.”
Gavi, Olmo and Fermin
On the injury front, Gavi’s return to the squad is seen as a positive development. He might even feature from the bench against Sevilla.
The same applies to Fermin Lopez, who has been training well and could also play. Dani Olmo’s situation, however, remains undecided, with his potential involvement to be confirmed closer to match day.
“In Gavi’s case, it is a very important step. Everyone is happy to have him back, he may be on the bench.
“The same goes for Fermin, he is working very well and may play tomorrow. In Olmo’s case, it is still to be decided, he will be on the bench,” he noted.
Flick also discussed Gavi’s versatility in midfield, highlighting that his aggressive style and mentality make him suitable for various positions.
“There are players in midfield who can play in several positions. With Gavi, with his mentality and how he channels aggression, he can play in both midfield positions.”
Frenkie de Jong and Ansu Fati
As for Frenkie de Jong, his fitness remains a concern. Although he started training with the team, he experienced discomfort, and his participation against Sevilla will depend on how he feels tomorrow.
“We have to see him tomorrow. He felt some discomfort yesterday, he started with the group today but then he was sidelined. I wanted to start him but we’ll see.”
In terms of Ansu Fati, while there is a chance he might play, the competition within the team is fierce, with Raphinha also in excellent form, making it difficult to guarantee his place in the starting XI.
“There is an option for him to play, but the quality of the team is incredible. He plays as the 11th and there is Raphinha, who is also at an incredible level.”
Flick also touched on Laporta’s recent criticism of the Nations League, agreeing that UEFA and FIFA should work together to address the future of international football.
However, he acknowledged that it is not within his control, and it is up to the governing bodies to decide on the next steps for the competition.
“I think UEFA and FIFA should speak with one voice. I cannot change reality and the great football experts should get together and see what they should do in the future.”
Meeting with Xavi
Former Barcelona manager Xavi recently shared a picture of him with Flick and when asked about the same, the German said he had been in touch with Xavi for a long time.
“I understand why you’re so interested. It’s an incredible club. I had a great welcome from the president and everyone else. I love the passion of this club. When I was the German coach I had a good relationship with Xavi.”
“We wrote to each other and talked. I waited a bit to contact him and after the tribute to Iniesta, I thought it was a good time to contact him.
Flick revealed that the two met for coffee and he was greeted by Xavi’s family.
“I asked him if I could have a coffee with him and it was a good meeting. I also met with his family. They’re not far from my house. The rest is private between him and me,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo
