Barcelona Coach Flick Discusses Olmo Situation and Lauds Emerging Star Following Victory in Barbastro
FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick talked about the registration issues with Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, while commending newcomer Toni Fernandez, following a successful Copa del Rey game against Barbastro on Saturday.
Barça progressed to the competition's last 16, securing a 4-0 victory on enemy territory.
The primary focus on matchday was once again La Liga and the RFEF denying playing licenses for Olmo and Pau Victor. Flick, back in action after serving a two-match ban, addressed the situation again shortly after returning to the sideline.
"We must maintain a professional attitude and accept the situation of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor. I make efforts to avoid letting it impact the team's performance," Flick stated.
"Everyone wants Olmo and Victor to be a part of our team, but we were focused on the match against Barbastro. We have no control over the situation. We must accept it, remain professional, and demonstrate our skills on the field," he added.
This weekend, history was made with Toni Fernandez becoming Barça's second-youngest debutant, surpassed only by Lamine Yamal.
"Of course, he has a great deal of talent. He didn't back down. He stepped onto the field, took a corner, and kicked it, which is fantastic. It's positive to see him return after a significant injury layoff," Flick commented on Fernandez.
Ansu Fati served as the Lamine of his time and the most celebrated La Masia prospect at the start of the decade.
Though he didn't start as anticipated, Fati saw some playing time but didn't quite deliver.
"Ansu has usually featured on the left, and I prefer him there rather than in the attacking midfield," Flick explained.
Following a lackluster series of results that contributed to Barça losing its six-point advantage over Real Madrid, who now leads by five points at the La Liga summit, Flick stated that securing the first victory of 2025 was "crucial".
"We had to begin the year in this manner, given our prior circumstances. We were outstanding defensively. We didn't provide our opponents with any opportunities, and we converted the chances we had. We remained highly focused," he concluded.
Flick mentioned that Toni Fernandez, who made history as Barça's second-youngest debutant, showcased great talent during the Copa del Rey game against Barbastro. Despite the registration issues with Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, Flick stressed the importance of maintaining a professional attitude and not letting the situation affect the team's performance in La Liga. Additionally, Flick expressed his preference for Ansu Fati to play on the left wing rather than in the attacking midfield.
