Ahead of FC Barcelona's home UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second-leg tie against Newcastle United, with the first leg ending 1-1, Barça manager Hansi Flick attended the pre-match press conference and discussed various aspects of the team's current situation.
Regarding Newcastle United:
“They can press high up the pitch while boasting an excellent defensive record. This will be a tough match. They are a physically strong, aggressive side with very fast players, and we must produce a perfect performance.”
Regarding Contract Extension:
“This is not the right time to talk about this, as we have a crucial match ahead. Everyone knows I'm happy here, but first I need to discuss it with my family. As I said, now is not the moment.”
Regarding Joan Laporta:
“For the club, having a stable structure and internal stability is crucial. We are currently at a key turning point, and everyone is delighted that he personally came to communicate with us.”
Regarding the Letter from Laporta When You Took Office:
“That letter covered many things about Barcelona. It particularly emphasized the role played by Johan Cruyff—the man who created the 'New Barcelona' philosophy—which focuses not just on 'winning' itself, but more importantly on 'how to win'. To achieve victory with passion, the right mental attitude, and a genuine enjoyment of the sport—that is exactly what we will strive for in tomorrow's match.”
Regarding the First Leg of the Champions League Round of 16:
“That's football. We know anything can happen. We must maintain a positive, optimistic attitude, and we are fully capable of winning this season's Champions League title. Some players are yet to return to the squad, and crucially, every player must perform at their highest level over the next month and in all subsequent competitions.”
“We analyzed the last match, focusing on areas that can be improved. We must play with unwavering belief and be good at finding spaces on the pitch—something we specifically practiced in today's training session.”
Regarding Lamine Yamal:
“Lamine Yamal is a player who can decide the outcome of matches. He had an excellent training session yesterday, as he did today, and everyone else has also performed well. The Champions League is one of the top competitions in the world today, and every player aspires to perform on this stage, which has injected an extra boost of motivation into the entire team.”
Further on Contract Extension:
“Obviously, I love working here very much. Most importantly, I feel like I have a great family here. In Barcelona, I have received tremendous support, but this is football. I am here to help the team reach the highest level, but there is still time (for contract extension). I am not considering going anywhere else; this will be the last club I work for, my final job, and I am content.”
Regarding Deploying Dani Olmo as a False Nine:
“This is indeed a viable option, and we have considered it before. Of course, to achieve all the goals we have set, we also need Ferrán Torres and Robert Lewandowski to be in their best form.”
