Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised his players’ attitude and resilience following their 2-1 comeback win over already-relegated Real Valladolid on Saturday night.
La Blaugrana extended their lead at the top of La Liga to seven points with the victory, albeit having played a game more than second-placed Real Madrid.
Ivan Sanchez’s deflected early opener had put the hosts ahead against a Barcelona side featuring nine changes from the midweek Champions League draw with Inter Milan.
Despite the rotated lineup and a disjointed first half, goals from substitutes Raphinha and Fermin Lopez turned the game around in the second period.
Speaking after the match, Flick admitted his initial strategy had to be altered due to the nature of the contest.
“I planned for Pedri and De Jong to play just 45 minutes each,” he said. “But I would have also liked Raphinha and Lamine to play fewer minutes.”
Dani Rodriguez’s injury forced an earlier-than-planned introduction for Lamine Yamal, while Raphinha’s halftime arrival gave Barcelona more edge in the final third.
Flick defended his squad selection, stating he had full confidence in the younger players despite some early struggles.
“When you make nine changes, it’s not easy for the players,” he noted. “They’re young. I believe in them.”
He acknowledged some tactical and execution issues, particularly with transitions and cohesion, but singled out Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen and Marc-Andre ter Stegen for praise.
Ter Stegen returned for his first appearance of 2025, but Flick confirmed Wojciech Szczesny would start the upcoming Champions League second leg and El Clasico.
Gavi, who suffered a knock late on, is not expected to miss any matches but will be assessed further in the coming days.
Flick underlined the importance of grinding out the win, especially with Real Madrid set to host Celta Vigo on Sunday.
“The goal is three points, and I’m happy to have gotten them,” he said. “Mission accomplished.”
Fermin Lopez’s winning strike could earn him a start in Milan, with Flick calling him a versatile option capable of filling multiple roles.
The coach expressed satisfaction with the mentality on display, insisting his side never gave up or switched off despite the circumstances.
Barcelona are now unbeaten in 15 league matches and head into a season-defining week with momentum on their side.
The job against Valladolid was not perfect, but Flick made clear it was enough.
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