FC Barcelona debuted in LaLiga with a victory against Valencia (1-2) in a match with a tense atmosphere at Barça due to rumors about the possible departure of Ílkay Gündogan. After his official debut as Barça coach, Hansi Flick clarified the reason for the Gelsenkirchen player's absence, in addition to giving details about the team's performance and the physical condition of Alejandro Balde, who left with discomfort in the second half.
"On Monday he hurt his eyebrow and that's why he's staying at home. I talked to him to see how he was. I appreciate what type of player he is and what he is like as a person. I've talked a lot of things with him, but it's something between him and I have a good relationship. I know him," argued the man from Heidelberg about the '22'. As planned, the midfielder was left out of the trip to Mestalla, but he should be available next Saturday against Athletic, as long as rumors about his departure are ruled out.
Flick, satisfied with the team's reaction and calm about Balde's physical condition
Regarding the performance of his team, Flick appreciated the team's effort to come back in a difficult field. "It is very important to start with a victory. We were better in the second half. In the first half we made more mistakes. The goal on the stroke of half-time was very important. In the second half we did better," commented the German coach in the training session. press in Mestalla.
One of the striking aspects of the complement had to do with the departure of Balde. The full-back asked for a substitution in the 65th minute due to discomfort in his left thigh, so Gerard Martín came on in his place. In this regard, the Heidelberg player seemed calm, waiting for the tests that will be carried out on the footballer in the next few hours. "It's fine. We'll see it well in Barcelona, but I think it's fine."
Flick praises Lewandowski and Lamine
Furthermore, the Barça coach took the opportunity to praise the undisputed 'MVP' of the match, Robert Lewandowski. The '9' started the season in the best way with a double and Flick did not hesitate to congratulate him. "He is a great professional. He is an important player. We defend and attack as a team. He has also done a great defensive job. He has scored two goals. He is always in the area," explained the German.
There was also praise for Lamine Yamal, who added an assist just before half-time, a decisive turning point in the match. "He is a fantastic player. He is important for us. He is a great footballer and everyone wants to see him play, and that is why they have also applauded him here," he explained. Likewise, he made clear his plan to try to make the most of the youth player's and Raphinha's capabilities. "I think they can play in many positions. We find different solutions," he commented. The Brazilian looked a little uncomfortable as a playmaker, but ended up scoring the penalty that was worth the three points.