Flick: Only Good Words to Say About Gündogan’s Departure; Koundé Can Mark Nico Williams

On Friday, Barcelona coach Flick attended the press conference before this round of La Liga against Athletic Bilbao, discussing various aspects of his team.

Regarding Rafinha, Flick stated: “The advantage of having a player like him lies in his versatility. I don’t want to talk about individual players specifically, but rather the entire team. However, he is very helpful for our pressing. In the second half against Valencia, he made sprints that were very beneficial to us.”

Speaking about Yamal, Flick said: “He participated in the European Championship and has been training for two and a half weeks. What I’ve seen from him is incredible. He possesses ball control and composure… A player like him is very helpful. I hope we won’t repeat the mistakes from the first half against Valencia. We must place him in the right position.”

Regarding Nico Williams, Flick said: “That’s not my job; I focus on my own players. Koundé will effectively contain him.”

About Athletic Bilbao, he commented: “The coach has done a fantastic job, both with and without possession. It’s tough work. I hope we are well-prepared, and we’ll see the results tomorrow.”

When talking about the squad, Flick said: “I focus on the squad I have. Always. I must strive to change what I can change. I have an excellent team full of talent, and we will endeavor to win tomorrow’s match.”

Regarding Marc Casado, he said: “Physically, he is very similar to Kimmich. I watched many Barcelona B games and analyzed him carefully. I really like him. During pre-season training, he impressed me. Other players also impressed me. I often say that I am very satisfied with the youth academy and Barcelona B. Their training is outstanding, which is great for the club. All players are doing well.”

Regarding Christensen, Flick said: “I don’t know why I need to talk to him. He has some issues, so he trains separately. He knows his situation. Last season, he had problems, playing many matches. We must address these issues. He is an excellent player, and I hope he can maintain peak condition and help him reach his best, not just 60%.”

Talking about the transfer market, he said: “I always say that I am very satisfied with this team. Today, I almost talked with all the players and will continue talking with others to make them realize their situations. Everyone enjoys playing and is willing to give everything, which helps us improve. We are ready for the game.”

Regarding Ferran López, he said: “Our feeling is that he is ready to play. After participating in two competitions, he needed rest, but it hasn’t cost him much physically. He is prepared to help the team.”

Concerning Olmo’s registration issue, Flick said: “That’s not my job; he worked well with the team this week. I like what he has shown; he is ready to play. We look forward to his return, and I hope he can enter the squad and help us. That would be very positive. He is great, and everything he does is incredible. I hope to have him soon.”

Regarding Gündogan’s departure, he said: “After the match against Valencia, we had an honest conversation, and he knew he could help us. But he changed his mind, and such things happen. I know him as a person and can only say good things about him. He has always been an outstanding player for Barcelona, and I can only say good things about him.”

Finally, regarding fan support, Flick expressed: “I believe fan support is crucial and should involve interaction. This support should make us stronger.”