Flick discusses Balde, Gavi and Barcelona’s need for a big win before Aston Villa clash

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick spoke on Monday ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Aston Villa about the situations of Alejandro Balde and Gavi. He said his team did not need a big win to prove itself after defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

Flick said Balde’s limited playing time could affect his confidence and that he saw him training well, but he chose what he believed was best for the team, pointing to João Cancelo’s high level. He added that he had spoken with Balde and would work to help him regain his confidence. Regarding Gavi, he explained that he did not see him as a full-back and that he remained an option for the team, although the course of the match could change the plan. He stressed that he had spoken with him about the importance of confidence.

Flick expressed confidence in his team, noting that it had won 11 matches in a row and that the results of the games against Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain could have been different. He said his focus was on Aston Villa and the Champions League, and that Barcelona wanted to be among the best eight teams. He also pointed to the club’s ambition to win La Liga and the Champions League.