Flick highlights Barcelona’s decision-making despite 4-1 win

Barcelona’s 4-1 victory over Galatasaray in Ligue did not stop Hansi Flick from criticising aspects of his team’s performance. The German coach also praised Lamine Yamal, whose influence went beyond his failure to score in the match.

Flick was pleased with the result at Ali Sami Yen Stadium and felt Barcelona had produced a good first half. The home side, however, took advantage of one opportunity to score, making the rest of the match more difficult. “We are very happy with the result. We also played well in the first half; the opponent had one chance and scored, but we managed to come back, and that was very important,” the coach said in remarks reported by Marca.

Beyond the scoreline, the coach identified an area that needed work: decision-making in the attacking third. He said Barcelona needed to make better choices in some situations despite the quality of its performance. “I think that when we put in a good performance in Ligue, we don’t make the right decisions in certain situations in the final third, and that is something that needs to improve. Playing in this stadium, amid the atmosphere created by the supporters, was not easy, but I am very happy.”

Flick also had praise for Lamine Yamal. The young player did not score, but his final pass contributed to two Barcelona goals. “Lamine didn’t score today, but he provided the final pass for two goals, and he was excellent. He is an incredible player and very important to us.” Flick also explained why he had kept him on the pitch: “He is physically ready, he is an important player, and it is good that he is on the pitch.”

Asked about the discussion in the dressing room between the two halves, Flick did not reveal what was said: “That will stay in the dressing room.” The win therefore came with a clear message about the improvements he expects, especially in decisions made close to the opposition goal.