FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has reminded his squad that while winning the Champions League remains the club’s ultimate ambition, their immediate priority must be Saturday’s LaLiga derby against RCD Espanyol.
Barcelona head into the weekend after a difficult setback in Europe, losing 2-0 at home to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal. The result leaves them facing a tough challenge in the return leg in Madrid next week.
Despite that disappointment, Barcelona remain top of LaLiga and hold a seven-point lead over rivals Real Madrid. Flick stressed that consistency in domestic matches is essential, even with European ambitions in mind.
The German coach highlighted the emotional importance of the Champions League for the club, players, and supporters, calling it the competition where motivation naturally rises. However, he insisted that the team must stay disciplined and focused on their league responsibilities.
Barcelona defeated Espanyol earlier in the season, and their city rivals have struggled for form since then, slipping into mid-table after a poor run of results. Flick also noted the importance of academy-trained players, saying those from La Masia understand the intensity of the derby.
Looking ahead, Flick suggested he may rotate his squad between the two matches against Atlético but expressed confidence in the depth of his team. He added that whoever starts against Espanyol will be capable of delivering a strong performance.
The coach also dismissed concerns about distractions from next week’s European second leg, insisting his players are fully focused on the immediate challenge of the derby at home.
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