Hansi Flick was introduced at Barcelona on Thursday. The German coach had already started working, but now spoke openly with the press during his presentation. He not only provided an update on Frenkie de Jong but also discussed Lamine Yamal, Ansu Fati, and Nico Williams.
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De Jong is still not participating in group training at Barcelona. The midfielder not only missed the European Championship with the Netherlands but also risks missing (a large part of) the preseason preparation with Barcelona.
This is a significant setback, as Flick acknowledges. "He is an incredible player. When he is back to one hundred percent, he is a fantastic footballer."
"He has shown that over the past few years," the German coach continued. "He is doing fine and recovering according to plan. We hope to have him back soon." Flick also discussed Ronald Araújo's situation, who will be out for several months following a hamstring surgery. "He has undergone a successful operation, and his recovery will now begin. I hope he returns quickly because we need his stability at the back."
In addition to De Jong, Flick will also have to do without Ansu Fati for the time being. The forward rejoined Barcelona this summer after a loan spell at Brighton & Hove Albion but injured the sole of his foot. "He did very well. He played on the left wing but can also play well as a striker. Unfortunately, he is now injured, and we have to wait to see when he will return." This injury comes at a crucial time, as Fati was expected to play a key role in the team's attacking lineup. Gavi will also be absent from Barcelona for the time being, further compounding Flick's challenges in assembling a competitive squad.
Flick can count on Lamine Yamal in the coming weeks. The seventeen-year-old winger had a stellar European Championship with Spain. "He did great work over the past year. I saw what he did at the European Championship, and it was incredible, but great players need to keep working and developing. It's very important for him to stay grounded, but I had a great conversation with him." Yamal's emergence is a bright spot for Barcelona, as the young talent brings fresh energy and creativity to the team. His development will be closely watched as he integrates more fully into the senior squad.
Finally, Flick was also asked about Nico Williams. The Athletic Bilbao winger also stood out at the European Championship and is reportedly of strong interest to Barcelona. However, Flick didn't reveal much. "Nico is not a Barça player, so I have nothing to say about that. I have learned this in my profession. He plays for another club, and I am focused on my team." This statement reflects Flick's focus on the current roster and maintaining team cohesion, while also leaving the door open for potential future signings.
In summary, Flick's first press conference as Barcelona's coach highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing the team. With key players like De Jong, Araújo, and Fati sidelined, the coach will need to rely on emerging talents like Yamal and the existing squad to navigate the preseason and start the new campaign strongly. The interest in players like Nico Williams suggests that Barcelona is still active in the transfer market, aiming to strengthen their squad despite current setbacks.
Updated: 03:00, 25 Jul 2024
