Flick Demands Barcelona Bounce Back Strongly

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has urged his team to respond decisively in Monday’s LaLiga clash against Girona, following their crushing 4-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg. The Spanish giants were comprehensively outplayed at the Metropolitano Stadium on Thursday, but Flick insists that his squad’s mentality has shown improvement during the subsequent training sessions.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Flick admitted the first leg was far below the level expected.
“Atlético were fully prepared for this battle. It was a Champions League standard encounter, and our first 45 minutes were not up to scratch,” he said.

“We lacked the competitive attitude in every duel, in every one-on-one situation they were superior, more dynamic – that is precisely what I want from my team. Today in training, I saw encouraging signs, and we must bring that intensity onto the pitch tomorrow.”

The timing of this challenge is compounded by Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad on Saturday, which has propelled them two points ahead of Barcelona at the top of LaLiga. Nevertheless, Flick remains confident in his side’s ability to recover from the heavy defeat.

“Losing to Atlético, a top-class team, can happen. Now we must move forward. The season is long, but everything is possible,” the German tactician added.
“When we play collectively, with everyone giving 100 per cent, our quality is enormous. Defeats happen, but the key is how you respond. This reaction is what I want to see tomorrow.”

Flick confirmed that Brazilian winger Raphinha is fit to start against Girona, while Marcus Rashford remains sidelined with a knee issue, although his recovery is progressing positively.

“Raphinha’s return is excellent news. He is extremely important to us. His presence adds dynamism and intensity in training, and last season I considered him one of the world’s best players,” Flick said.

The Barcelona coach also addressed refereeing concerns from the first leg, noting that the club lodged an official complaint with the Spanish Football Federation regarding inconsistencies in officiating. However, he emphasised that responsibility lies with the team.

“It was not the referee’s fault we lost. What we can change, we must change – and we will,” he concluded.

Copa del Rey Semi-Final First Leg: Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona

Flick’s message is clear: Barcelona must harness their collective strength and resilience to overcome Girona, regain momentum in LaLiga, and ensure that one humiliating defeat does not define their season.