Emotional at times, reflective at others, but with a sense of mission accomplished. That was Hansi Flick this Sunday during his press conference at the Auditori 1899 of the Spotify Camp Nou. Proud of his players, aware that he had experienced “a day I will never forget.” But already ambitious: “We’re going for 100 points, and next year, for the Champions League.”
The Clásico that could decide the league title came at a difficult moment for you. Your father passed away just hours before the match.
It was a tough game, and I will never forget this day. I want to thank the squad, the president, the vice president, Deco, and everyone who supported us. In the end, the most important thing is that I am very proud to have such a good team. Thank you for that will to fight for 90 minutes. We must celebrate it. Visca Barça and Visca Catalunya.
The team also played a very good match against Madrid. Are you satisfied?
It’s fantastic to have won the league in the Clásico against Real Madrid. It wasn’t easy; they are a great team. I am very proud of my players. We played and defended very well against a great team. I am proud, what can I say? The atmosphere in this dressing room is fabulous. I am happy in Barcelona.
Has the team’s unity been key to winning the title?
The group is very important; we are a family.
How do you think this league will be remembered?
Injuries didn’t make it easy for us, but even so, we have been fantastic. We knew how to play very well in this final stretch of the league. We did good things in defense. Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Eric… They have been fantastic. And I was able to use the bench because there were many players available. Maybe a few weeks late… but we are happy. And now we want to reach 100 points. Of course, now the players deserve to celebrate. And next year, we will try to win the Champions League.
What has Barcelona given you to want to continue your career?
It’s not easy. You have to manage things. At the beginning of the season, I talked about egos, but then what I saw in training gave me a very good feeling. Training is the most important thing.
It has been a difficult day for you.
Yes. My mother called me to tell me that my father had passed away. I have a good relationship with the players, and I wanted to tell them. It’s not hard to talk on a day like today. But the players’ reaction was spectacular.
Raphinha said you are like a father; they carried you on their shoulders…
I am very proud because everyone feels part of this and is connected. It’s hard for me to talk about this today, but I am happy. Thank you (becomes emotional).
Had you imagined this when you arrived?
I always think positively. When you coach a big team, you have to win titles. And I always dream of it, of course. And I fight for it.
What makes you so happy in Barcelona?
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I said it last season. From the first day and the first contacts with Deco, when I arrived in the city, everyone welcomed me. I really appreciate what we did.