Flick reminds Barcelona players of high standards
Hansi Flick has held frank discussions with members of his Barcelona squad following back-to-back defeats, as they look to get their season back on track against Levante.
Barca welcome Luis Castro's side to Camp Nou on Sunday, having lost control of the title race in LaLiga after a 2-1 defeat at Girona on Monday.
That loss came off the back of a comprehensive 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie four days earlier.
Those results have led to heavy criticism of Flick and heightened the possibility that the Blaugrana will end his second season in charge with only the Supercopa de España to show for their efforts.
Asked about how his players had responded to their poor results at Saturday's pre-match press conference, Flick said: "The group is convinced of the work we are doing.
"It is not a simple situation, but communication is essential. We have been very clear and honest with each other. I ask them questions, it's my way of managing the team.
"We need leaders in the dressing room and for that, it is key to speak to them at the same level.
"After that, the decisions are mine. I want the players to take responsibility and they are doing that."
All four of Barca's defeats in LaLiga this season have come on the road, and they remain one of five teams yet to lose a home match in Europe's top five leagues this season, alongside Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Napoli and Borussia Dortmund.
The Blaugrana had two extra days off in the build-up to Sunday's game, and Flick hopes that added recovery time will yield results.
"After the two defeats and without having shown our best level, I think the two days off have been good for us, the players look fresher," Flick said.
"We play at home and we need to win to regain confidence. It's normal that when you lose and don't perform as you expect, doubts arise, but we've been very honest and open with each other, and that's fundamental for what's to come.
"We must play true to our idea: with mentality, good positioning and, above all, with hunger. I want to see that in the team."
Levante are 19th in LaLiga, seven points adrift of safety, after a 1-0 defeat to Villarreal in midweek – their third loss in a row after drawing 0-0 with Atletico on January 31.
