FC Barcelona secured a narrow but valuable 1-2 win over Real Valladolid, and their coach, Hansi Flick, did not hide his satisfaction after the match. The German coach emphasized the importance of the result, especially considering the rotations in the starting lineup and the difficulties the game presented.

Hansi Flick, happy with the three points and what they represent

“It was crucial to win today. Beyond the performance, we needed the three points, and the team knew how to respond,” said Flick after the match. The coach admitted that the first half was tough, as Valladolid set up a very tight defense that prevented Barça from creating clear chances. “They defended very deep, closed the spaces well, and it was hard for us to get into rhythm,” he explained.

However, in the second half, the Blaugrana managed to impose their game and turn the score around. “We found more space after the break, and that allowed us to create clearer situations,” added the coach, pleased with his players’ reaction.

One of the standout moments of the match was the debut of Dani Rodríguez, who had to leave the field due to a shoulder injury. Flick positively assessed his performance and showed confidence in his future: “Dani is fine, we’ll know the exact extent of the injury tomorrow, but he did a great job, and he has a good chance of getting more minutes.”

There were also comments about the return of Marc-André ter Stegen, who came back to defend Barcelona's goal after several months on the sidelines. “His return gives us a lot of confidence. He’s a pillar within the group,” said Flick, visibly pleased to have his first-choice goalkeeper available again for this decisive part of the season.

With this victory, Barcelona remains firmly in the title race for LaLiga EA Sports, and is already looking ahead to the next challenge: the crucial match against Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinals. “Now we need to switch focus. We have a big game in Europe ahead, and we’re ready to compete at the highest level,” concluded Hansi Flick, who is determined not to let any objective slip away this season after already claiming the Copa del Rey.