Flick clears doubts about Araújo and defends Barça's performance

FC Barcelona will visit Borussia Dortmund this Wednesday (21:00 CEST) in a match marked by the return of Ronald Araújo to the Barça squad. In the pre-match press conference, Hansi Flick revealed his plan for the Uruguayan, leaving the door open to give him minutes in Germany, although he made it clear that the match against Leganés (Sunday) seems to be the ideal one to see the '4' on the field.

"We are happy that he is back. He has strength and motivates a lot, even the coach. I really like his attitude. We will see how the match develops tomorrow and over the weekend. The plan is for him to play, but I can't say when. It's important that there are no risks", explained the Barça coach.

Likewise, the Heidelberg native downplayed the criticism regarding the Barça slump in the league. Barça has only won one of its last five matches in the tournament, but Flick understands that, in such a demanding season, slumps are inevitable. "In the end, it all depends on how it ends. We are convinced that we will pull through. We will continue to improve. We are clear that there are situations where we make mistakes and we need to work hard", he argued.

For Flick, Barça should not change style against Dortmund

In this regard, the Barça coach defended the style that the team has been implementing since summer, based on high pressing. "As a team, there is a philosophy and the players must participate in it. It is related to the context. What was seen in the second goal against Betis has marked the players. There is a lot of intensity in the matches," Flick detailed.

Moreover, the coach ruled out changing his mind in Dortmund, proudly referencing the results obtained in other 'high-voltage' matches both in the league and in the Champions League. "We have proven our worth in many matches, like against Real Madrid or Bayern. Tomorrow we must offer our maximum potential. The Champions League is another level, it motivates us. We want to win the three points and take a step forward," Flick emphasized, also showing his respect for the opponent.

"We are going to play in a fantastic stadium, complicated and with an incredible atmosphere. The fans will support us. The environment is wonderful. I think it's something to take advantage of; it gives us many opportunities. It should be an extra motivation," added the Heidelberg native.