Flick urges Barca not to slack off against Rayo
Barcelona turns its attention back to LaLiga action on Monday (AEDT), as Hansi Flick's league leader hosts Rayo Vallecano at Camp Nou searching for another win before title rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid do in the derby later in the day.
Barca boss Hansi Flick has urged his side to maintain its level from its UEFA Champions League win over Newcastle United, which it thrashed 7-2 in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie to secure an 8-3 aggregate victory, setting up a quarter-final clash with Atletico.
The Blaugrana are four points clear at the top of LaLiga, with second-placed Real Madrid facing rival Atletico on Monday (AEDT) ahead of the international break.
After their rampant win over Newcastle, Flick wants his Barca side to play with the same intensity.
"It’s very important to maintain our level," he said.
"Seeing the players enjoy playing football the way they did against Newcastle was really great.
"Rayo tends to play the same at home and away. They are an experienced group with a lot of intensity, and that’s what we expect to face tomorrow."
Barca faces Atletico twice immediately after the international break, first in LaLiga before the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg.
The Blaugrana have already played Diego Simeone's side three times this season – once in LaLiga and twice in the Copa del Rey – winning on two occasions and losing the other.
Flick has welcomed the timing of the international break, believing his players must make the most of the rest.
"We'll train during the international break, but we'll give a few days of rest to those who stay," he added.
"It's also positive for those who leave. It's good to disconnect from the routine to return with more energy."
