Barcelona coach Hansi Flick demands more fight from his players amid injury crisis, with key players missing for Celta Vigo clash
COACH HANSI FLICK has demanded more fight from his Barcelona players as the club battles an injury crisis.
The Catalan giants are five points behind La Liga leaders Real Madrid ahead of Sunday’s match against Celta Vigo.
Barcelona drew 3-3 at Club Brugge in the Champions League on Wednesday amid inconsistent form this season.
Flick confirmed his team will be without Raphinha, Pedri, Joan Garcia and Gavi for the Celta Vigo match.
Jules Kounde is also a doubt for the game at Balaidos stadium.
“It’s not an excuse, it’s a fact — we have a lot of injured players,” Flick told a news conference.
“They are huge players, some of our key players.”
The German coach acknowledged his team must improve their performances significantly.
“I know, we all know, the players know we have to play much better,” he said.
Flick emphasized the importance of fighting spirit after what he saw against Brugge.
“On Wednesday we couldn’t see this fight, that we need,” he stated.
“Hopefully tomorrow we will see it.”
Celta Vigo present a tough challenge having won their last five games across all competitions.
Flick described the Galician side as being in a “good mood” ahead of the match.
Lamine Yamal showed improved form against Brugge after recovering from a groin issue.
“He changed his discipline, it’s much better now, he’s really training good,” said Flick.
The 18-year-old has been called up by Spain for upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Flick asked Spain coach Luis de la Fuente to handle Yamal carefully given his injury history.
Yamal aggravated his groin problem while with Spain in September.
The winger was released from Spain’s squad for October matches due to the same issue.
“He comes back to the best level but it’s not over,” Flick added.
“We have to take care about this injury, not only us but also the national team.” – AFP
