Giuliano Simeone put Atletico Madrid ahead after 10 minutes, but Fermín levelled just before half-time and struck again in the 66th minute to complete the comeback. Barcelona took the points despite an impressive opening from the hosts.
“We were not good in the first half,” Flick said. “The 1-1 before the break was important. It was not easy to press the ball, but the second half was good. I am happy. We deserved the victory and it is three more points.”
The Barcelona coach rated the importance of leading the table before the international break at “10 out of 10”.
“We have the quality to win these matches. I believe in this team. It is not easy to win here. The season is a long journey. We work every day to win titles and have success.”
Flick also explained his decision to use Frenkie de Jong at right-back, saying he had discussed the role with the midfielder. “The idea was for him to play 15 minutes at right-back and then change when Bernal was tired,” he said.
Diego Simeone was proud of Atlético’s performance, despite accepting that Barcelona had been more clinical in front of goal.
“I am left with an extraordinary match from the players. I have nothing to reproach them for. We played the match we wanted, created chances, but it is true that we did not have that decisiveness and they did, even though they had fewer opportunities,” he said.
“The result was fair because they scored two goals and we scored one.”
“I leave happy, knowing that we are under construction, with things to improve and players who can continue to grow. I am pleased with everyone.”
Simeone also offered strong backing to Julián Álvarez, who missed several opportunities but provided the assist for Giuliano’s goal.
“He played an important match and was involved in three situations, beyond the assist for Giuliano. The cross for Baena was his as well. We all wanted that goal, but we will wait for him because he is a great player. To reach where we want to go, we need the best Julián. Without that, we will not get there.”
Flick acknowledged the demands of the international break. “It is part of our job. We have to know how to manage these situations and take care of the players.”