Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has expressed his enthusiasm ahead of tonight’s crucial UEFA Champions League match against Bayern Munich, the club he previously managed. This encounter at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys marks a significant reunion in Flick’s managerial journey.
Since taking the helm at Barcelona, Flick has experienced a strong start and is pleased with the high morale within his squad as they prepare for this high-stakes clash. Speaking to the club’s media, he emphasized the team’s unity and competitive spirit, stating, “The mood is great. I’m really happy with the team because I can feel the spirit they have with each other and their competitive spirit against opponents. This is important, it’s necessary that they have this, but also to win, so they have a hunger to win, to give their best for the fans, for the club, and for the team. This is really crucial.”
Reflecting on his successful tenure at Bayern, where he won multiple titles, including the Champions League, Flick shared fond memories but maintained his focus on the present. “I had really great years in Munich. I have a lot of memories there, really great ones because we had big success there. I have relationships with some players and some club members,” he noted.
Despite his deep connection to Bayern Munich, Flick reiterated his commitment to Barcelona, highlighting the importance of his current role: “But things are different now. I’ve started a new project, you know, and this is Barcelona. I’m really happy to be here. What I can say is that people are very open and very kind to me and my staff. We are giving our best to make all the people happy here. I’m happy to be in Barcelona and also happy to stay and work at this amazing club.”
Flick also recognized the vital support of the fans in the team’s recent performances, stating, “It’s important that we have the support of the fans. I can see that this has started since the beginning of the season. Every match gets better and better, the connection between the fans and the players. It’s really good because they see that the players are giving their all on the pitch and they also help us in situations that are not so easy. This is the best thing you can have.”
As Barcelona prepares for this pivotal showdown, the clash promises to be a memorable encounter, with Flick leading his new team against his former club in what could define their Champions League campaign.