Barcelona hope to return to winning ways on Sunday afternoon when they host Levante at the Spotify Camp Nou. The Catalans have lost their last two games against Atletico Madrid and Girona, with the latter result meaning they now trail Real Madrid in the La Liga title race.
It’s been a tough 10 days for Barcelona, a head coach Hansi Flick believes his team is ready to come back. According to Marca, he believes that the last week has allowed his team to restart ahead of important games.
“After two defeats and showing that we did not give the best level, it was very good to have two days of rest. Now the players are refreshed and this is important. We are playing at home and we have to win, take three points. We want to regain confidence. It is important to regain trust. If you lose, and you don’t play well, maybe doubts appear. We needed integrity to win games and this is the key.
Flick: The players are still convinced of my tactics
Once again, much has been said about Barcelona’s style after two poor results, but Flick sees his players still buying into his plans.
“I see the team is confident in our style and way of playing. Out of the five titles we have, we have won four. I spoke to many players and they are all 100% confident. But, sometimes, it is lost. You don’t like to lose, and even under a team like Barcelona, but you have to accept the situation and improve.
“Everyone is sure of what we are doing. These are not easy times, but communication is important. We were honest and free. I ask them questions, that’s how I work and manage. It’s important because we need leaders. You always have to communicate at the same level, then I make decisions. I want the players to commit themselves and they do.”
Flick tells all when he meets the players
On Thursday, Flick had an hour-long meeting with his players to discuss where things went wrong, and he talked about it with the media.
“We have had many opportunities from the players we play with and we have talked about what we need to do to improve and return to our best level. There was an open debate. I also wanted to set the record straight. It is important that we can talk about situations, do things, control ourselves.”
Explore Barcelona’s leadership issues
Flick also revealed his reaction to suggestions that Barcelona’s problems are due to a lack of leadership on the pitch.
“This is normal. In Girona, the first 15-20 minutes went well, I was very happy. After that we lost the feeling and we had opportunities, but we didn’t use them. We don’t play with the strength we have. But you are right, we need this type of players on the field, so, I told them that I want them to explain their ideas to me.
“Commitment is important. If the players give 100%, the level is very good. We may not have a leader’s reference, but it is everyone’s job to help them grow at all times. I am 100% sure of my team and I look forward to the next games. We opened the page in both games, but we have to improve. The good thing is, Rashford and Pedri are improving and Pedri is improving.”
