This result allows them to approach the international break with confidence, especially as they reduce the gap with Real Madrid in the La Liga title race.
According to Diario AS, coach Hansi Flick commented on the victory in Vigo and took the opportunity to respond to persistent criticism of Barca’s tactics this season.
“We moved the ball well and defended better in the second half. Football is like that. It’s not what you do in the moment that counts. The second half gives us confidence for the next matches. We only focus on ourselves. Today we pressed well and I’m happy for the team.
It’s important to speak out, but I won’t. There is too much noise around us. Let’s hope the injured players return. We have made progress and we are on the right track. We will analyze today’s match, because we didn’t do everything perfectly either. »
Flick: Too early to define Lewandowski’s role in the team
Robert Lewandowski was the star of the match for Barcelona, scoring a hat-trick in his first game as a starter since returning from a hamstring injury. Flick was asked if he sees the veteran striker as his starting number nine for the rest of the season.
“It is too early to say. After his injury, I saw a different Lewandowski. He was positive, he came back quickly. It’s very good that he scored three goals, because it will give him confidence again. Last season he was very important for us. »
Flick hopes for Pedri’s return after de Jong’s sending off
Flick also praised Frenkie de Jong, while regretting the midfielder’s late sending-off, which leaves him out of the game against Athletic Club in two weeks’ time.
“He had an excellent match, he controlled the match. It is very important to us. He plays at an incredible level. » It’s a shame that he misses the next match, we’ll have to deal with that. We’ll see if Pedri can come back.
