Football Presse

Flick demands Barcelona response and raises doubts over Balde's confidence

·By Carlos Volcano
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Flick demands Barcelona response and raises doubts over Balde's confidence

Barcelona/X.com

Hansi Flick has called on Barcelona to respond immediately against Alavés after consecutive defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, insisting that he remains fully convinced by his squad and their footballing approach.

The German coach addressed several issues ahead of Saturday's match at the Spotify Camp Nou, including the team's defensive problems, Raphinha's international commitments and the possibility of giving Brian Fariñas his senior debut. He also made clear that Alejandro Balde needs to rediscover his confidence.

Flick began by offering condolences to those affected by the train accident in Toledo, before turning to the challenge facing his team.

"The road is long. Nothing irreversible has happened. We have lost against Real Madrid and nobody likes that, but we have to manage it and learn from it. We have to accept the defeat. Tomorrow we have to win the three points."

Barcelona have several defensive absences, with Jules Koundé, Eric García, Andreas Christensen and Xavi Espart among those unavailable. Flick acknowledged that he must find alternatives, potentially turning to players whose usual positions are further forward.

"We are missing four at the back. We have to find solutions, and that is what we are working on," he said.

One possibility is Frenkie de Jong, whose versatility Flick believes can help the team. He also praised the Dutchman's importance when fully fit.

"For me, he is a very important player. When he is at 100 per cent, he is incredible. He has great quality on the ball and a great mentality. He helps us defensively. He is a great player and he raises our level."

Flick was also asked about Balde, whose recent performances have prompted questions about his form. The coach was direct in his assessment.

"Balde does not currently have the confidence he needs in his game, or the conviction. The defenders are very important. He needs that confidence to perform at his best level."

The injury situation could create an opportunity for Brian Fariñas, who has impressed in training and may be used at right-back.

"Brian is very intelligent. He has been training with us since the start of the season. He is doing a fantastic job. He deserves to play now," Flick said.

Raphinha's situation was another concern. The Brazilian is expected to join his national team for the November international fixtures in Singapore, despite having returned from the previous international break injured.

"I have spoken with Deco. He is a very important player and after the international break he came back injured. That was not the best situation. Rapha has the club in his heart, but if the national team calls him, he wants to be there. Everyone wants to help their national team. If we can manage his minutes, I would be happy. It is not ideal to go to Singapore and back, but it is not in my hands."

Flick also addressed Lamine Yamal's response after missing out on the Ballon d'Or, which was won by Harry Kane. He believes the England striker was a deserving winner but insisted that Yamal remains capable of claiming the award himself.

"I think Kane also deserved to win it. You know my opinion of Lamine; he is also at the level to win it. I told him and the team that I thought it was fantastic that he spoke about Cubarsí, who also deserved to win the Kopa Trophy. It was a great gesture."

He added: "I am very proud of Lamine. He reacted very well. I see him as very focused. That is how champions respond."

The coach also left the door open to strengthening the defence in January, saying Barcelona were continuing to assess what would be best for the squad.

"We are always looking for the best for the team. We will see. There are still a few weeks before the winter transfer window opens. If we can do something, perhaps we will."

Despite the recent setbacks, Flick insisted that the atmosphere at training remained positive and that he had not lost faith in the team's approach.

"Today the training session was good, the mood was good and there was a good atmosphere. We have to show that tomorrow. Alavés defend well, but we are Barça and we want to show our best version."

He also thanked the club's board for its support, adding that nothing had changed in his own outlook.

"I am very happy to be here. We won 11 matches and now there have been two defeats, so we have to win again. But our idea of how to play is the best for this team. We will continue like this until the end."