Barcelona’s Hansi Flick praised his team’s performance despite a 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid in LaLiga. Goals from Rodrigo De Paul and Alexander Sorloth overturned Pedri's opener. Flick emphasized his satisfaction with the team’s style, vowing to return stronger after the break as Barca prepares for key 2025 fixtures.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite a 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid in LaLiga on Saturday night. The defeat marked a significant setback, with Barcelona losing their top spot in the league table.
Pedri gave Barcelona an early lead in the first half, but Atletico Madrid turned the game around in the second half with goals from Rodrigo De Paul and Alexander Sorloth, the latter striking deep into stoppage time. The victory propelled Atletico ahead of Barcelona, with a game in hand.
Flick, who missed the match due to a touchline ban, addressed the media after the game, emphasizing his pride in the team’s style of play. “We played an extraordinary game, and this is the style I want at Barça,” Flick remarked. “The result is disappointing, but the performance was fantastic. We need to build on the passion from players like Pedri and Gavi.”
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Flick remained optimistic. “Atletico capitalized on their chances, but we controlled the game. Frustrating as it is, I’m confident the results will come,” he said.
Barcelona now faces a crucial period in early 2025, beginning with a Copa del Rey fixture against Barbastro on January 4, followed by the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia. Flick is determined to use the upcoming break to regroup and drive his team toward a stronger second half of the season.