Flick satisfied despite narrow win over relegated Valladolid
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed satisfaction after his team’s narrow victory over bottom-placed Real Valladolid, despite the match being more difficult than expected.
There was a clear gulf in class and form between the two sides going into the match. On the pitch, Barcelona dominated possession for long stretches. But football is ultimately about goals, and that’s where the Catalan giants initially fell short. Still, they managed to come away with all three points. It may not have come in convincing fashion, but Flick was happy with the result.
On Saturday in La Liga, top-of-the-table Barcelona took on Real Valladolid—already relegated and owned by Brazilian legend Ronaldo. Surprisingly, Valladolid struck early, scoring in the 6th minute and holding onto their lead until the 53rd.
Eventually, Barcelona found their rhythm, thanks to goals from Raphinha and Fermín López, which secured a 2–1 win. The victory pushed Barça seven points clear of Real Madrid. Even if Madrid beat Celta Vigo on Sunday, the Catalans will maintain at least a four-point lead—something that gives Flick comfort.
Adding to the challenge, Flick made a massive nine changes to the starting eleven that played Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinal first leg. Only Pedri and Gerard Martín kept their spots. Despite the rotation, Barça still controlled 82% of possession, though their attacking threat was limited. They managed only 7 shots on target out of 24 attempts.
Still, Flick said he was pleased with the team’s effort:
“I’m not disappointed. After so many changes to the starting lineup… it’s not easy for the other players. Most of them are very young. But we have full confidence in them. When you make so many changes, it’s natural for the performance level to dip a bit.”
He emphasized that the main goal was the win:
“The goal was three points, and we were able to achieve that. Our mission was successful.”
Flick also noted the importance of resting some key players and giving opportunities to others ahead of upcoming big games:
“Some players needed rest today, and we were able to give them that. We also got to give others some game time. It wasn’t an easy task, and because of that, a few mistakes happened and we had to make quick adjustments. But Ronald Araújo and Andreas Christensen played well… and so did Ter Stegen.”
This match also marked the return of goalkeeper and captain Marc-André ter Stegen, who made his comeback after 222 days out due to injury. However, Flick made it clear he won’t be rushing him back into major fixtures just yet:
“We’ll keep monitoring Marc. He did well today. But in the Champions League and against Real Madrid in La Liga, Stanisic will play.”
