It’s time to react for FC Barcelona against Levante at the Spotify Camp Nou. After two defeats in a row, Hansi Flick’s side have another opportunity to get back to winning ways in front of the fans. The German coach is quite clear on how to achieve this – get the confidence back and their best version as a group.
“We are playing at home and we have to win because we want our confidence to come back. When you lose and don’t play that well, it’s normal for there to be doubts. But I think we have been very honest, very open and that is key for the coming games. We have to play based on our philosophy – mentality, good positions on the pitch and hunger. I want to see that hunger on the pitch”, he assured during the pre-match press conference ahead of the LaLiga Levante clash.
Flick admitted this is a tough moment, but he showed he believes in the response from the dressing room, stating “I think everyone is convinced. These moments aren’t easy, but communication is vital. I want the players to also assume the responsibility for the situation and I think they are doing it. They know we have to improve”.
The blaugrana coach considers that one of the key aspects will be “to perform again as a team, always connecting well”. In that sense, he explained that if the team is together, “we will be able to press well and play with more intensity, with and without the ball, which is something we have lost a bit recently”.
They are set to face a Levante side in need of points, which according to Flick, may make the game even more demanding. “I am expecting a deep Levante, looking for transitions. It won’t be easy at all. But I hope my players give it their all and show their best version. After what has happened, you can lose confidence, but it’s time to get back up and continue improving. It is a home match and it is a good moment to turn the situation aropund”.
On Gavi, Rashford and Pedri
After many conversations with the group to refocus the dynamic in recent days, Flick struck an optimistic note. He also gave some positive news in that important players are returning, stating “the most positive thing I see is that Pedri and Rashford are back and that Gavi is progressing”.
On Gavi, he remarked that his progress needs to be taken step by step. On the other hand, both Pedri and Rashford may be available for the match on Sunday.
When asked specifically about the potential return of the Canary Island midfielder, the coach said “Maybe Pedri can play a few minutes, but the positive thing is that he’s back. He’s very important for us — he’s a different kind of leader thanks to his quality”.
