Hansi Flick concerned by Barcelona players’ fitness ahead of Atletico Madrid showdown

Barcelona secured a victory against Espanyol on Saturday, winning 4-1 in their derby match at the Spotify Camp Nou. While the result was positive, the game was more tense than the home team would have preferred.

According to Diario AS, head coach Hansi Flick shared his thoughts on the match, expressing his satisfaction with Ferran Torres's brace, which ended his goal drought.

"We dominated the first half and were leading 2-0. Everything seemed under control, but the game shifted with the 2-1. We can still improve, but I'm pleased for (Torres). He's in good form, which I see in training. Naturally, he's happy about scoring."

Flick: La Liga Title Not Yet Secured

This win puts Barcelona nine points ahead of Real Madrid with seven games remaining. They are strong favorites to win the league title, but Flick remains cautious.

"It's not over yet. We must focus on our remaining games. We cannot assume it's already won. This mindset is incorrect and unacceptable. Until it's officially confirmed, we must continue to play our best football. The team's mentality is crucial, and we will maintain it. I want us to demonstrate this on Tuesday."

"We don't think negatively. On the contrary, I always maintain a positive outlook. I reflect on what we've achieved so far, which is fantastic considering the number of injuries we've dealt with and our current recovery process."

Flick Worries About Player Rest

Because the scoreline remained 2-1 until the 86th minute, Barcelona was unable to provide sufficient rest for key players like Pedri and Lamine Yamal. Flick is concerned about this affecting their performance in the upcoming Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid, though he doesn't believe it will be overly impactful.

"Yes, but we managed their minutes, and ultimately, the game's narrative unfolded differently than expected after it became 2-1. We have two days to recover. Players are generally adept at recovering within that timeframe. I believe we will be ready for Tuesday. We aim to go to the Metropolitano and compete strongly against Atletico."

Flick also conveyed a message to the Barcelona fans in anticipation of the match, as the Catalans look to overturn a two-goal deficit at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

"We don't need a miracle; we just need to play our best football, which we are capable of. Many outcomes are possible. After being 3-1 up, we scored to make it 4-1. I acknowledge Atletico is a formidable team, but so are we. We will fight, and I am confident that the fans will support us there and be ready."