Hansi Flick: Barcelona have room to grow, we will keep getting stronger

Barcelona's winning streak has reached ten matches, with another stern test already on the horizon. On Saturday at 19:30, the Blaugrana travel to face Real Betis—a side also competing in the Champions League and who have already defeated Real Madrid this season. Coming right between away trips to Galatasaray and Paris Saint-Germain in Europe, this represents a demanding period for Barca. Nonetheless, manager Hansi Flick appears unruffled. Here is what he had to say during his pre-match press conference ahead of the visit to Seville.

Do you feel this is your first major test of the season in La Liga?
We are solely focused on the next match, and I'm not particularly concerned with where each team sits in the table right now. These three fixtures are crucial, just as the Galatasaray match was. Pedri, Rodri, and Fermin played very well. We must keep that momentum going and prove ourselves in every single game.

Do the upcoming European fixtures affect your preparation for tomorrow's match?
No, tomorrow's match is the priority. Betis have won all their home games and are playing with tremendous confidence. They score a lot of goals, so we need to defend exceptionally well. Pellegrini is doing a fantastic job.

On Mourinho's remarks that La Liga doesn't allow sufficient recovery time between games:
We have found ourselves in similar situations before. Things might be handled differently in other countries, but for us, the situation is what it is. For example, when we played in the Cup in Valencia, our flight was cancelled and we had to travel back to Barcelona by bus. We had a match shortly after and still performed well. We cannot change the schedule, but delivering on the pitch is down to us. Everyone is focused and showcasing their quality. We have the potential to grow and will continue to improve.

How are you managing Lamine Yamal's workload?
That's not an easy question to answer. We have to manage his playing time carefully. Above all, the most important thing is that he enjoys his football, and that's precisely what he's doing.

Will Raphinha get some minutes?
If you ask him, he'll tell you he's ready to start. However, I have to take things step by step. He is training well with the group, but we must manage his workload. The positive news is that he will be available, as will De Jong.

What determines your choice between Olmo and Fermin? Can Fermin also feature as a centre-forward?
Fermin can play as a central striker, but we have to consider each player's profile and background. We saw that when he scored the second goal against Galatasaray. That is his style and his character; he often thrives arriving from outside the box. Having two players of such high quality is incredible. Dani found it tough to score initially, but he is in great form right now. Having to choose between the two is a fantastic dilemma.

How do you evaluate Olmo as a centre-forward?
For me, Dani is an exceptional footballer and a wonderful person. He brings a great blend of skill, technical ability, and personality. I am extremely pleased with him. Over the past year, he has made significant strides and is in peak physical shape. It's fantastic to have him as an option at centre-forward.

How important is Gavi to the squad?
Gavi was disappointed to miss out on the national team, but what I see from him in training is top-class. He wants to improve every single day. In terms of intensity and focus, Gavi operates at an exceptionally high level. He is the heartbeat of this team, and we need him. For me, he is a world-class player when at his best, and he is very close to 100% now.
What role do you envision for De Jong?
Frenkie is a top-level player. I'm delighted to have him back. We need to monitor his progress as he returns from injury, just like Rodri. He will be ready to get some minutes tomorrow.

Could De Jong play as a centre-back?
We haven't tested him much in that role, mostly just in five-a-side drills. He is fully committed in training and eager to demonstrate his quality. We have plenty of options. Managing this squad is no easy task, but it's a great position to be in. Whoever earns a starting spot must justify why they are there—no one can afford to let their standards drop.

How do you view Balde's situation and what does the future hold for him?
It's not an easy situation for him, but he is training very well. We have Xavi Espart and Cancelo performing at an incredible level. Of course, it's not ideal for Balde, but he is handling himself like a true professional and showing that he is ready when called upon.

Would you like to have Ez Abde in your squad (note: former Barca academy player, now at Betis)?
Abde is a fantastic player. We have a great squad, but I really admire what I see from him. I love his confidence in one-on-one situations. The goal he scored in the Champions League was unbelievable. He is playing at a very high level.