Barcelona manager Hansi Flick offered a measured assessment after his side edged past CD Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey round of 32.
While the scoreline read a comfortable 2-0 win, the reality on the pitch told a more demanding story.
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Facing a determined opposition from the Primera RFEF, Barcelona were made to work far harder than expected and only found a way through in the final stages of the contest.
Reflecting on the performance after the final whistle, Flick highlighted what mattered most to him on the night, saying,
“I’m very happy with the players’ attitude and the victory. These Cup games are difficult, but we’ve done well.
“The important thing is the attitude and mentality we’ve had throughout the game,” he explained.
Ter Stegen’s inclusion
Marc-Andre ter Stegen kept a clean sheet. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
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One of the main talking points before kick-off was Flick’s decision to start Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
With Wojciech Szczęsny also available, questions were raised about the goalkeeping hierarchy, but Flick was quick to frame the decision as a measured one rather than a statement.
Explaining why the German international was given the nod, Flick emphasised leadership, experience and rhythm, stating,
“Marc is the captain and has played a lot of games. We talked to the other coaches and wanted to give him the chance to play.”
Flick also revisited the difficulty of the contest itself, praising his squad for staying patient and disciplined despite the long wait for the opening goal.
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Assessing the opposition and the nature of the game, Flick said,
“These games aren’t easy, as I said before. I’m happy with my players’ attitude on the pitch.
“That’s the key to our victory. It’s not always easy to score in games like this, but we did it.”
More on Ter Stegen pre-match
Barcelona registered a hard-fought win. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Ahead of the match, Flick had also addressed questions about ter Stegen’s role, clarifying that the goalkeeper’s inclusion should not be read as a permanent shift.
The manager was clear in his explanation, noting that his place in the XI “is only for today” and adding that “he is in good shape and can prove that he is ready.”
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Casado as right-back
Another surprise came with Marc Casado lining up at right-back.
Flick acknowledged the unconventional choice, reiterating his belief in the youngster’s midfield profile while explaining the practical reasoning behind the move.
As the coach put it, “Casado will play at full back.
“For me, he’s more of a 6 or an 8, but I wanted to give Jules [Kounde] a rest, and it’s important that he gets some playing time,” he had explained.
Source: MARCA