Flick Calls for Barcelona to Sharpen Up in Copa del Rey Showdown with Atletico Madrid

Barcelona must reflect on their LaLiga loss to Atletico Madrid earlier this season and strive to be more ruthless in front of goal for their impending Copa del Rey semi-final first leg, manager Hansi Flick (60) stated on Monday.

Atletico secured their first away victory at Barcelona in 18 years with a 2-1 win in December, despite the hosts having the upper hand early on and even netting the first goal.

“This encounter is a fresh start. We need to demonstrate our capabilities,” said Flick during a press briefing ahead of Tuesday’s home fixture.

“Atleti are a formidable side, having invested significantly in their squad. They possess top-notch defenders and forwards. We anticipate a challenging match…”

“The silver lining from our previous defeat is the quality of football we can play. Our performance that day was of the highest standard. We had chances to extend our lead before they scored.”

“We must seize the chances to score, as that is what ultimately matters. Furthermore, we need to remember that this is a two-legged tie, not just a single match.”

Flick is optimistic about having Lamine Yamal available after the 17-year-old winger was unable to participate in Monday’s training due to a knock sustained during the 2-0 victory over Las Palmas on Saturday.

Yamal, who provided an assist in that match, later shared an image on Instagram showcasing his injured left foot.

“We will await clarity on whether he can play; however, I’m hopeful based on the medical team’s feedback. We absolutely want him to join us,” Flick remarked to the media.

The German coach also mentioned that midfielder Dani Olmo could be fit to play a full match, having recovered from a calf injury sustained in January.

Olmo, who has netted seven goals and assisted three in 22 outings since his transfer from RB Leipzig during the summer, scored after coming off the bench in the recent win against Las Palmas.

“For me, the priority is that he can start the match; we’ve been managing his condition carefully, and that’s our approach,” said Flick.

“The goal he scored against Las Palmas was crucial.”