Mundo Deportivo have a new report on the situation and say that Flick met with Joan Laporta and Deco recently to talk about a possible extension to his current deal that runs until 2027.
Flick is completely happy at Barcelona but the report says he wants to delay any more talks on his future until the end of the season.
The German coach does not want to commit to a long-term contract and wants to focus on the current campaign instead. He’s also aware that presidential elections will take place next year which may cause changes at the club.
There’s no suggestion at all that Flick is thinking about walking away but more a feeling that he’s in no rush to look to the future at this point in time.
Flick won three titles in his first season at Barcelona and will be hoping to add more in 2025-26. He has his team currently top of the table in Spain, into the next round of the Copa del Rey and still in contention for automatic qualification to the knockout round of the Champions League.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Pedri emerges as a doubt for Barcelona against Villarreal
Barcelona are currently preparing for their final game of 2025 against Villarreal at La Ceramica on Sunday afternoon.
Hansi Flick’s side were back to work on Friday but were without the services of Pedri who trained individually, according to multiple reports.
Pedri reportedly has a minor calf strain which means Barcelona are being very cautious with him ahead of the game.
Mundo Deportivo say that Pedri is ‘doubtful’ but a final decision will be made after training on Saturday, meaning he could potentially miss out.
Pedri importance to Barcelona has been highlighted yet again this season, with Hansi Flick’s side looking a different animal when the Spain star is in the starting XI.
Flick will know that Barca simply can’t afford to lose him to another injury and it’s no surprise to see Barca being super careful in a bid to avoid making his current issue worse and resulting in an injury lay-off.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona News: 19 December 2025; Barça Femení discover possible Champions League quarter-final opponents, Alessandro Bastoni talks Barça rumors
Eric Garcia, 24 out of 24 – FC Barcelona Number 24 is a special one for Eric Garcia. He has worn this shirt number since returning to Barça in the 2021/22 season, and it’s also the number of games that the team has played across all competitions this season, and Eric is the only player to have appeared in every single one of them!
Paris FC or Real Madrid in UWCL quarterfinals – FC Barcelona We now know the route to Oslo 2026. FC Barcelona were able to enjoy the draw for the knockout stages of the Women’s Champions League in Nyon today having secured first place in the league phase after the win away to Paris FC.
Bastoni on Barça’s interest: “It makes me proud” – Mundo Deportivo The Inter Milan left-footed centre-back, linked to the Catalan club in recent days after rumors circulated for months, stated ahead of the Italian Super Cup semi-final that “there is nothing to it.”
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Joan Laporta’s adviser talks up Barcelona move for Julian Alvarez
Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s adviser Enric Masip has talked up a possible move for Atletico star Julian Alvarez.
The Argentina international has been linked with Barcelona for a little while now, although it’s thought his lofty price tag will see the Catalans priced out of any potential move.
Yet Masip says that Alvarez would suit Barcelona and isn’t out of their financial reach.
“I would say yes, he is a great player, a player with incredible quality and he is having a great season at Atletico,” he told Jota Jordi on ‘Solo para Culés TV’ as “he is one of the great goalscorers in the world, it’s clear.”
“The president said that Barça always have to be in a position to be able to sign whoever they consider to strengthen the squad, which I have no doubt will be like that after the homework we have done in the economic plan and especially with the issue of the squad and the salary balance that exists between young people and veterans.
“Barça could face that situation if it were the case, I have no doubt that it will be like that.”
Laporta did say recently that Barcelona had funds available if a big-money signing was needed but warned the club won’t spend for the sake of it. He explained: “We’re capable of making a significant investment, but we won’t go crazy with signings.”
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Alessandro Bastoni responds to Barcelona transfer talk
Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni has played down speculation about a potential move to Barcelona.
The Catalan giants are believed to be keen to add another center-back to the squad, and Bastoni’s name has been mentioned recently as a possible target.
The Italian defender has now been asked about the transfer talk but insists he does not know anything about interest from Barca.
“It makes me proud to see links, it means I’m doing well – but there’s zero, nothing,” he said. “I’m happy here at Inter and I have zero issues or problems here. I don’t even focus on the news.”
Bringing in a new center-back looks like it will be one of Barca’s top priorities next summer, although a replacement for Robert Lewandowski may also be needed if the veteran departs.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona News: 18 December 2025; Robert Lewandowski considering MLS transfer, Marc-André ter Stegen wanted by six clubs in January
Marcus Rashford: Goal-getter – FC Barcelona The English winger has settled seamlessly into Hansi Flick’s side. Injuries elsewhere and his own strong performances have seen him play plenty of minutes and establish himself as an important figure in the blaugrana squad. And that confidence is also producing goals.
Barça Women’s possible Champions League opponents – FC Barcelona After an excellent initial phase in the Champions League, Barça Women ended top of the table, taking 16 points from a possible 18 in six matches. Taking the top spot means Pere Romeu’s side move directly into the last eight of the competition where they will face either Real Madrid, Juventus, Wolfsburg or Paris FC.
Ter Stegen has a list of interested clubs – Mundo Deportivo AS Monaco, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle, Manchester United, Beşiktaş and Bayern Munich are some of the teams that have him in their sights in this winter transfer window, according to the specialized press.
Sama Nomoko, out for the next 12 months – Mundo Deportivo The winger, one of Barça Atlètic’s biggest breakout stars, underwent surgery for a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, with associated damage to the meniscus. The established recovery time is one year; the injury is similar to those suffered by Gavi and Marc Bernal.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Barcelona escape Guadalajara with a rare clean sheet away from home
The beauty of the Copa del Rey is that you get to see how much the competition means to even the smallest clubs that you’ve never heard of before.
Barcelona are the reigning champions, but they weren’t far away from an upset in Guadalajara.
Hansi Flick started the game with some surprises. Marc-André ter Stegen was in goal. Lamine Yamal, to the disappointment of many, was on the field instead of resting. Marc Bernal and Marc Casadó got rare starts.
Guadalajara parked the bus, and as the game went on, looked like they had it in them to score a goal on the counter attack.
Barcelona, for their part, had no solutions.
Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford were locked down, and there was simply no getting through the wall that the small but mighty Guadalajara had set up.
Enter Pedri, and like clock work, the Blaugrana’s luck changed. Within a minute, Andreas Christensen scored the game winner from a ball over the top.
It was a frustrating night for Barcelona, but they march on. For the first time since August 16th, they recorded a clean sheet in an away match. Not a bad return for Ter Stegen.
10 – Barcelona kept a clean sheet in an away match for the first time in all competitions since 16 August against Mallorca in LaLiga, ending their worst run of conceding away from home (10 matches) since February 2024 (12). Return. pic.twitter.com/j0kNh76MKv
Winning in the end is all that matters. The Copa del Rey is known for being tricky, and big teams have tripped up in the past. The little clubs put their hearts and souls into the moment, because in many ways this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for them.
Hansi Flick experimented, and it didn’t work out. No harm no foul.
Barcelona are closing in on a very strong close to the year. They are in the driver’s seat across all competitions. They visit the Yellow Submarine on Sunday. Villarreal at the moment is a La Liga title contender. Barcelona can end 2025 with a statement win, and have the winds at their back heading into 2026.
Sometimes, those crucial wins won’t be pretty, but you have to get the job done nonetheless.
Good on Guadalajara for fighting hard and creating a memory to last a lifetime.
Good on Barcelona for their consistency of late in the win column.
For the Blaugrana the result is all the matters, no matter how you get it. They’ll have to remember that in the near future, because crunch time has arrived, and trophies are up for grabs.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski holds ‘positive talks’ with MLS side Chicago Fire
Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has reportedly held talks with MLS side Chicago Fire over a fee transfer for next summer.
Lewandowski’s current contract at Barcelona expires at the end of the season, and the current thinking is that it will not be renewed.
According to BBC Sport, there have been “positive talks” between Lewandowski and Chicago Fire, raising the possibility he could be heading to the United States next summer.
The report adds that Lewandowski is on the club’s ‘discovery list’ which means no other club in the league can sign him without paying a fee to the Chicago Fire. There’s been talk of interest from Inter Miami but Chicago Fire are currently in pole position.
Lewandowski is also said to be a top priority for the club as Chicago has the largest Polish community in the United States. The striker paid a visit to the city recently on a trip to the US with his family.
The striker, who will turn 38 in August, hasn’t offered many clues as to what his future plans are. He’s said publicly he’s focused on the current season with Barca as he aims to add more titles to his extensive collection.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona News: 17 December 2025; Barça win Copa del Rey debut, Aitana Bonmatí claims third straight FIFA The Best award
Guadalajara 0-2 Barça: Through to the last 16 – FC Barcelona Into the last 16 of the Copa del Rey for Barça. It wasn’t easy against CD Guadalajara at the Pedro Escartín stadium, as the hosts showed real determination to remain in the match throughout. Ultimately, the blaugranes’ dominance and patience paid off, as a Christensen goal in the final quarter of an hour, plus a late goal by Rashford, sees Hansi Flick’s side into the next round of the cup competition.
100 FC Barcelona appearances for Pau Cubarsí – FC Barcelona A significant number reached for Pau Cubarsí today, as he has now made 100 competitive appearances for the FC Barcelona first team. His century came in the Copa del Rey last 32 match against Guadalajara at the Pedro Escartín stadium.
Ter Stegen back after 212 days with clean sheet – FC Barcelona Areturn to the FC Barcelona goal for Ter Stegen, as he started the Copa del Rey match against Guadalajara and helped his side through to the next round of the knockout competition, with Hansi Flick’s side winning 0-2.
Lamine Yamal and Pedri in The Best XI – FC Barcelona Lamine Yamal and Pedri have both been named in the FIFA The Best World XI, recognition of the impact the two FC Barcelona players continue to have at the highest level.
Aitana named The Best again – FC Barcelona Aitana Bonmatí has once again been named the best woman footballer in the world by FIFA, the FC Barcelona midfielder also having been presented with the accolade in the previous two seasons. After recently securing her third straight Ballon d’Or, the Barça number 14 continues to set the standard in women’s football and underlines the club’s dominance at FIFA’s The Best awards.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Barcelona keeping tabs on Aston Villa defender Pau Torres
Barcelona are reportedly keeping tabs on Aston Villa defender Paul Torres ahead of a potential move for the center-back.
According to ESPN, Barcelona are prioritising the signing of a left-footed center-back – following the departure of Inigo Martinez last summer – and Torres is very much on the club’s radar.
The report adds that Barcelona want to find a long-term central defensive partner for Pau Cubarsi and think Torres is a good option.
Barcelona are said to value Torres’ ability on the ball and in the air and think he would be willing to listen to an offer to return to Spain.
In the meantime, Gerard Martin has emerged as a new partner for Cubarsi after being shifted over from his usual position on the left.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona announce squad for Copa del Rey Round of 32 against Guadalajara
The next Barcelona match is upon us! The Blaugrana make their debut in this season’s Copa del Rey with a Round of 32 tie against third tier Guadalajara, and Hansi Flick has called up the following 23 players for Tuesday’s game:
Goalkeepers: 1. Marc-André ter Stegen, 13. Joan Garcia, 25. Wojciech Szczesny
Midfielders: 8. Pedri, 16. Fermín López, 17. Marc Casadó, 21. Frenkie de Jong, 22. Marc Bernal, 27. Dro Fernández, 43. Tommy Marqués
Forwards: 7. Ferran Torres, 9. Robert Lewandowski, 10. Lamine Yamal, 11. Raphinha, 14. Marcus Rashford, 28. Roony Bardghji
There are no fresh injury concerns after the weekend win over Osasuna so Flick is able to call upon the same squad that was in uniform on Saturday, and Wojciech Szczesny is back after missing out in the last game with a stomach bug. That means only Dani Olmo (shoulder) and Gavi (knee) miss out through injury, while Ronald Araujo remains away from the team for mental health reasons.
The match kicks off at 9pm CET/WAT (Barcelona & Nigeria), 8pm GMT (UK), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 1.30am IST (India, Wednesday), and you can join us to follow and comment all the action.
VISCA EL BARÇA!
Source: barcablaugranes.com
‘Joan Garcia will rest’ – Hansi Flick talks Barcelona rotations ahead of Copa del Rey tie
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that starting goalkeeper Joan Garcia will not feature in his team’s Copa del Rey Round of 32 tie against Guadalajara on Tuesday night.
Flick was asked at a press conference on Monday if he plans to rotate his squad to give reserves and youngsters an opportunity to play and the coach said there will be changes to his usual starting XI, though he did not want to go into detail into who will get the nod, including in the goalkeeper spot where both Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczesny are in contention to start.
“Joan Garcia will rest tomorrow. First I want to talk to the players and then we’ll announce the starter. I want to wait until tomorrow because we’re in a recovery phase.
“[Rotations] could happen, obviously. We have everyone available. Robert has been training individually but he’s also available for tomorrow. We’ll make some changes, but we want to win and that’s the most important thing.
“Marc is a fantastic goalkeeper, and we have three excellent goalkeepers. We’ll see what happens. I’ve already said that Joan is number one, and from there we’ll see what happens. Tek played last season, and we won three titles with him. This season, when he was injured, he gave us stability. Tek is also a very important player for us in the locker room.”
Choosing the goalkeeper for Tuesday is not a straightforward decision. Szczesny has been the backup this season and started big games while Joan was recovering from knee surgery, but Ter Stegen is fully fit now and would love to get some minutes before deciding his future in January.
Who do you think should start in goal on Tuesday, Barça fans?
Source: barcablaugranes.com
‘Better if he plays’ – Guadalajara boss hopes Lamine Yamal starts for Barcelona in Copa del Rey tie
Barcelona are back in action in midweek against minnows Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey in game which is likely to see Hansi Flick make changes to his starting XI.
It’s a great chance for fringe players to enjoy some minutes in the first team, although Guadalajara boss Pere Marti disagrees and says he hopes to face a strong team.
“They’re all good, but we’d like to play against the usual starters. To enjoy them and then when we win (smiles) it’ll be even more of a big deal,” he told Marca.
“It’s a match to enjoy and, of course, to compete in, because nobody likes to lose in this sport. We’re going out there and trying to win, and hopefully the best players can be there to enjoy it too.
“It’s better that he [Yamal] he plays. It would be wrong not to see him on the pitch.”
Marti, who freely admits he is a Barca fan, also explained what his side need to do to pull off a shock against the Catalan giants.
“That our motivation is important,” he added. “To play a very serious, very tough game, to make things difficult, not to be afraid and to be brave, which doesn’t mean we’re going to do crazy things, but you’re going to experience situations where you have to make decisions and if they’re made out of fear, well, many times they hurt you.”
The coach is actually suspended for the game but will be watching from a booth when the two sides meet on Tuesday.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
‘If they want to sell him, he has to play’ – Barcelona sent strong message on Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s future
Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s future at Barcelona remains unclear amid speculation he could leave in January in a bid to boost his World Cup chances.
There has been rumored interest from Turkish clubs in Ter Stegen’s services but the goalkeeper is “not convinced” by the offers received so far, according to La Vanguardia.
The report adds that Ter Stegen is currently thinking of staying and seeing out his contact, that runs until 2028, as he refuses to be pressured into an exit.
“If they want to sell him, he has to play; that way he’ll have more market value,” is apparently the message from those close to Ter Stegen about his current situation.
Barcelona are set to take on Guadalajara in the competition on Tuesday, and it will certainly be interesting to see who Flick chooses as his starting keeper for the match.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Marc-Andre ter Stegen or Wojciech Szczęsny? Hansi Flick to decide on Barcelona’s Copa del Rey goalkeeper
Barcelona’s next game is against Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday in a match which is likely to see Hansi Flick rotate his side and offer minutes to fringe players.
Ter Stegen is yet to feature this season but will surely be hoping to get the nod. However, Flick also has Wojciech Szczęsny as an option and could go with the Pole instead.
Szczęsny was ruled out of Saturday’s match due to illness but was back in training on Sunday and should be eligible.
Flick spoke about the situation after seeing his Barca team beat Osasuna at Camp Nou and says no decision has yet been made on who will take their place between the stick.
“We haven’t decided yet. We’ll see on Sunday or Monday, if we have time. First, we have to wait for Szczesny to recover. This is the first step we have to take. Then we’ll see who plays on Tuesday,” he told reporters.
Who do you think should get nod in the Copa del Rey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Why Robert Lewandowski didn’t play a single minute for Barcelona against Osasuna
According to Catalunya Radio, the reason that Lewandowski did not feature was because he had some hamstring discomfort and Hansi Flick did not want to risk the veteran.
Journalist Mireia Ruiz reported: “The Pole did not have minutes against Osasuna due to hamstring problems. In case of urgency he could have played 15 minutes, but with Barça’s first goal they ruled him out.”
Raphinha then made the game safe in the 86th minute to secure another three points for Barca that extends the Catalan giants’ lead at the top of the table.
It’s not known how serious the problem is for Lewandowski or whether he will feature next time out when Barcelona take on Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey.
Flick will be expected to rotate his side for the match, meaning players who have struggled for minutes such as Roony Bardghji, Marc Casado and Andreas Christensen could be handed starts.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Hansi Flick’s ‘meritocracy’ is paying off for Barcelona
One of the benefits of having a healthy roster is that the coach has choices.
How he uses that decision making power is another question. At the moment, Hansi Flick is evaluating his players one game at a time, and based on performances, choosing who gets the start.
This has been possibly recently, because finally, most of the team is fit and available.
Frenkie de Jong and Robert Lewandowski have started from the bench in the last two league games. Ferran Torres and Eric Garcia have been that good. Why change what’s working?
It doesn’t mean we won’t see more of Frankie and Lewandowski in the future. These are two legends of the game, and they will be ready to go the next time their number is called. What this means is that, for now, while Ferran is scoring goals and playing with fire in his belly, and so long as Eric continues performing well in the defensive midfield, they are the rightful choices.
If their forms dips, and Frenkie and Lewandowski take advantage of their next opportunity, then the let them continue to play.
We saw this earlier in the season too when the choice was between Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo. Both players have had their moments, and they are holding each other to higher standards knowing that they need to compete at a high level for their spot on the field.
Ideally, at some point, the cream rises to the top, and Flick will get a consistent run of games with what’s revealed as his best starting eleven.
At the while, he knows there will be hungry players on the best eager to take advantage of their next chance, whether it’s because of injury, tactics, or a drop in form.
This can also be used to his advantage with in game management. Flick didn’t hesitate to insert Marcus Rashford at half-time against Eintracht Frankfurt. He came in and was the solution. On Saturday, against Osasuna, he once again got his team going with a great assist to Ferran Torres, that was unfortunately taken back because of a peculiar offsides call early in the sequence.
We all thought that Rashford was back to the bench with the return of Raphinha. Not so fast. It will depend on who is performing going forward. That’s a great place to be if you’re Barcelona.
Meritocracy means fairness. There are no favorites of the coach. That energizes and motivates a dressing room, rather than creating bitterness.
Let’s hope this continues.
Barcelona is having a strong close to the year. Night and day compared to last December.
January will be telling. You have the Spanish Supercopa, Copa del Rey, and two big Champions League games before the knockouts begin.
Now we will see what this iteration of Barcelona is all about.
Who’s going to be on the field will depend on the hard work and desire of the players.
That’s a formula for success you can bet on.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Barcelona star Pedri beats Lionel Messi record against Osasuna
The Spain star becomes the youngest player to reach 150 appearances for Barcelona in La Liga at the tender age of 23 years and 18 days. He beats the record previously held by a certain Lionel Messi, who was 23 years and 121 days when he hit the landmark against Real Zaragoza.
1 – At 23 years and 18 days old, Pedri González will become the youngest player to reach 150 appearances for Barcelona in LaLiga, surpassing the previous record held by Lionel Messi, who played his 150th match against Real Zaragoza in October 2010 (23y, 121d). Icons. pic.twitter.com/GIStkxbhoo
Pedri starts alongside Eric Garcia again for Barcelona, with Hansi Flick once again preferring his versatile star to Frenkie de Jong. Marcus Rashford and Ferran Torres are also in the starting XI, along with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.
Flick had a few words about his selection before kick-off. He told Movistar: “Raphinha will start as an attacking midfielder and Lamine Yamal as a winger. I’m seeing the team very focused. I like what I see.”
Barcelona have the chance to move seven points clear at the top of the table with a win. Real Madrid play tomorrow against Alaves.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Barcelona vs Osasuna, La Liga: Match Thread, Live Updates
WELCOME TO CAMP NOU!!! The Greatest Stadium on Earth continues its busy run of fixtures as Barcelona welcome Osasuna for some Saturday evening La Liga action. These two teams don’t exactly like each other after a very strange controversy involving Iñigo Martínez last March, and Barça would love to pick up all three points to maintain their healthy advantage at the top of the table. This should be fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos!
LINEUPS
To be announced.
MATCH INFO
Competition/Round: 2025-26 La Liga, Matchday 16
Date/Time: Saturday, December 13, 2025, 6.30pm CET/WAT (Barcelona & Nigeria), 5.30pm GMT (UK), 12.30pm ET, 9.30am PT (USA), 11pm IST (India)
Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Referee: Adrián Cordero Vega
VAR: Carlos Del Cerro Grande
HOW TO WATCH
On TV: ESPN Deportes (USA), SuperSport (Nigeria), Movistar (Spain), others
We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads:
Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another.
Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona announce squad for La Liga match against Osasuna
The next Barcelona match is upon us! The Blaugrana welcome Osasuna for their next La Liga game at Camp Nou, and Hansi Flick has called up the following 23 players for Saturday’s clash:
Goalkeepers: 1. Marc-André ter Stegen, 13. Joan Garcia, 31. Diego Kochen
Midfielders: 8. Pedri, 16. Fermín López, 17. Marc Casadó, 21. Frenkie de Jong, 22. Marc Bernal, 27. Dro Fernández, 43. Tommy Marqués
Forwards: 7. Ferran Torres, 9. Robert Lewandowski, 10. Lamine Yamal, 11. Raphinha, 14. Marcus Rashford, 28. Roony Bardghji
There is a last-minute scratch for this one as backup goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny is forced to miss out due to a stomatch bug, and he joins the injured Dani Olmo (shoulder) and Gavi (knee) on the absentee list, while Ronald Araujo remains away from the team for mental health reasons.
The match kicks off at 6.30pm CET/WAT (Barcelona & Nigeria), 5.30pm GMT (UK), 12.30pm ET, 9.30am PT (USA), 11pm IST (India), and you can join us to follow and comment all the action.
VISCA EL BARÇA!
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona News: 13 December 2025; All set for Osasuna clash, Julián Alvarez talks Barça rumors
When and where to watch FC Barcelona v Osasuna – FC Barcelona LaLiga time at the Spotify Camp Nou. Osasuna visit the Blaugrana home, as Hansi Flick will be looking to maintain the positive atmosphere to earn another three points and further consolidate top spot in the league.
Hansi Flick: ‘We need to focus on ourselves’ – FC Barcelona The past few weeks have been very positive at Barça. The team has recovered from being five points behind Real Madrid in the league to being four points ahead of their closest rival. However, for Hansi Flick, who addressed the media in a press conference on Friday, “there’s still a very long road ahead, with many matches to be played.”
Rashford came off the bench in the game at Camp Nou and helped to turn the game in Barcelona’s favor, with the Catalans running out 2-1 victors.
Flick spoke out after the game and offered some insight into Rashford’s mentality this season at Barcelona.
“When he’s on the bench, it shows also we have a good team,” Flick he told reporters.
“In this position we have excellent players. What I can say, he’s an absolute professional player. His attitude, mentality is great. In the beginning, he had to adapt a little bit, but now he’s on his best level.
“I speak with the players when they’re not playing, explaining why, and what he said to me the last day, was ‘Boss, you don’t have to tell me this, it’s only about the team. We have to win three points, nothing else is important.’
“It’s the right attitude. The mentality he has is fantastic and I am really happy he is here.”
Hansi Flick explains Frenkie de Jong’s recent lack of minutes at Barcelona
Barcelona have won all four games since the painful defeat at Stamford Bridge two and a half weeks ago, which also happened to be the last time Frenkie de Jong started a game.
The Dutchman went on to miss the next two with an illness, but since his return to the lineup Frenkie is yet to start and has played just over 50 total minutes as a substitute in the last two games.
Hansi Flick was asked in a press conference on Friday about Frenkie’s lack of minutes recently and explained it’s normal for De Jong to have to earn his spot back in the lineup after not playing a lot, especially given the form of Eric Garcia as a defensive midfielder.
“As I said before, this is the current situation, and we’ve played well recently with Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Alejandro Balde, and Eric García. Frenkie de Jong was ill and missed two matches, which is why he didn’t play. He needs to recover, and it’s normal that he was out after what happened to him. For me, it’s important that we field our best 11 players to win the three points.
“At the moment we’ve seen Eric as a ‘6’ and he’s done well. Perhaps he needs to continue like that for now. It’s important that everyone recovers well. We’ll decide tomorrow. Eric can play as a ‘6’.”
Flick’s quotes seem to indicate Eric will remain the starting pivot for Saturday’s game against Osasuna and likely the next few games, and that De Jong might have to wait his turn for at least a while.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Hansi Flick talks competition between Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski for Barcelona starting striker spot
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is happy with the competition for places in his team during a strong recent run of form, especially between strikers Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.
Both players have scored hat-tricks over the last month and Ferran has been especially impressive, and that has created a good selection headache for the coach, who said at a press conference on Friday that he enjoys seeing the form of both of his goalscorers and thinks it’s a reflection of what’s happening to the team as a whole.
“In a team like Barça, at this level and with so many competitions, it’s important to have competition within the squad. This makes the players improve. What Ferran and Lewy are doing is good for the team. What I’ve seen in the last four weeks has delighted me. Ferran is playing at a very high level. The quality of training is different from what it was two months ago. This is the level at Barça. If we train at this level, we can improve; that’s the key.”
Despite the subpar performance against Frankfurt in midweek there is no doubt that Barça are returning to their best version, especially in an attacking sense, and having both strikers on fire will help to convert the many chances they’ve been creating recently into goals to continue the team’s strong run of form.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
FC Barcelona News: 12 December 2025; Preparations begin for Osasuna, Eric Garcia signs new deal until 2031
Back at work – FC Barcelona LaLiga settings. After a day off, Hansi Flick’s squad were back in for training today for a session as part of preparations for the league match against Osasuna, the first game after the Champions League comeback against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Good news for Osasuna ahead of Barça trip – Mundo Deportivo Osasuna began preparing for Saturday’s match at Camp Nou with several of the players who finished their last game with knocks, but are now back in the team’s training sessions.
