Hansi Flick admitted that he struggled during the match against Racing de Santander despite securing qualification
The FC Barcelona head coach spoke to the media about his team’s progression in the Copa del Rey.
Following FC Barcelona’s professional victory in Santander, head coach Hansi Flick appeared before the press this Thursday to analyze his side’s progression to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals. Barcelona faced a daunting task against Racing de Santander, the current leaders of Spain’s Second Division, but emerged victorious at a rocking El Sardinero. Flick utilized the press conference to praise his team's grit, the hostile atmosphere, and specifically, the standout performance of goalkeeper Joan García.
Flick was quick to acknowledge the difficulty of the match, noting that cup ties against high-flying lower-division teams are often "trap games." He highlighted the electric atmosphere provided by the Racing fans and the level of competition shown by the home side. However, the German strategist expressed deep satisfaction with how Barça remained "solvent" throughout the 90 minutes, maintaining a clean sheet and securing their passage to the next round—the primary objective of the trip north.
The Subtle "Dig" at Real Madrid’s Failure
One of the most talked-about moments of the press conference was Flick’s indirect reference to Real Madrid’s shocking elimination at the hands of Albacete just 24 hours prior. While he avoided mentioning the eternal rival by name, his message was loud and clear: in the Copa del Rey, prestige means nothing without effort.
"In the Cup, you don’t win because of your name; you win through your attitude," Flick remarked.
He emphasized the "seriousness and mentality" his squad displayed, contrasting it with the lack of intensity often seen in giant-killings. Flick even took a moment to laud Racing de Santander’s project, venturing to predict that the Cantabrian club is destined for a return to La Liga (First Division) in the very near future due to their defensive organization and high-pressing style.
Fermín López: The Engine of the New Barça
Flick reserved special praise for Fermín López, who has become a vital cog in the German’s tactical machine. The manager emphasized Fermín’s relentless energy and his "intelligence in space occupation." According to Flick, Fermín’s ability to influence the game through both assists and late runs into the box makes him an indispensable asset for the second half of the season.
"His dynamism and hunger are exactly what we need in these types of knockout matches," Flick added, reinforcing the idea that the young Spaniard is currently ahead of several veteran options in the pecking order.
The "Copa Magic" and the Joan García Debate
The Barcelona boss also reflected on the beauty of the Spanish tournament, noting that lower-tier teams play with a "bravery" and a lack of pressure that makes the competition unique. He credited Racing for their intensity, which forced Barça to play at their absolute best to avoid an upset.
Finally, the discussion turned to the goal. Joan García delivered a crucial save that preserved the lead and earned him his latest clean sheet. Flick defended his decision to start García as a "technical choice" that paid dividends. While he confirmed that he is happy with the goalkeeper's form, he remained cautious about the future, stating that he will evaluate the starting spot "game by game" based on physical fitness and tactical needs.
With this victory, Flick’s Barcelona continues its quest for a domestic treble, showing a level of maturity and discipline that currently stands in stark contrast to the chaos unfolding at the Santiago Bernabéu.
