Flick Pursues More Trophies as Barcelona Prepares for Copa del Rey Showdown with Atletico

Barcelona have been formidable, enjoying a 20-match unbeaten streak across all competitions and remaining the sole team in Europe’s top five leagues without a defeat in 2025. They are on the hunt for three trophies while showcasing some of the most captivating football their supporters have witnessed this season.

However, manager Hansi Flick has pointed out that the team’s success will ultimately be defined by the titles they secure, and he made it clear that his squad is geared up for a full-throttle effort in their Copa del Rey semi-final return leg against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, with the aggregate score tied at 4-4 following a thrilling first leg in February.

Barca currently hold a three-point advantage at the top of LaLiga over Real Madrid and have progressed to the Champions League quarter-finals, where they are set to face Borussia Dortmund in the first leg next week.

“I’m eager to claim titles, and we’re going all in,” Flick declared during a press conference on Tuesday. “Tomorrow’s match feels like a final, and it presents a tremendous opportunity for us.

“We take great pride in this team and our style of play. It’s not merely luck that we’ve reached this point; we’ve earned it. I’d like to express my gratitude to everyone for their efforts. They’ve responded brilliantly in every circumstance.

“Their mentality remains consistent; they give their all and never back down. As for the outcome, we’ll see … The team has progressed, and I’ve conveyed that to them. I’m thankful for their contributions. But in football, titles are what matter most.

“That said, everyone is pleased with the way we play, our style, and how the players have developed. I’m satisfied with the squad and the atmosphere in the dressing room. We must keep this momentum going.

“We triumphed in the Spanish Super Cup against Real Madrid back in January, but that’s behind us now. We aim to reach the Cup final, but it certainly won’t be simple,” he added.

Flick acknowledged that Barcelona will face an Atletico side that may be fighting for their last opportunity for silverware, having been eliminated by local rivals Real in the Champions League round of 16 and losing momentum in the title chase.

Currently, Barca lead LaLiga with 66 points from 29 matches, with champions Real trailing on 63 points and Atletico in third place with 57 points after not securing a win in their last three encounters.

“(The Cup) is the title that’s most within reach for them,” Flick said.

“One game, and they’re in the final … But it’s the same for us. They have an astute coach in Diego Simeone, who knows how to get the best results in these situations.

“LaLiga still has plenty to offer, without a doubt, but Atletico possess a fantastic manager, they understand what’s at stake, and they’re committed to their strategy. They’ll fight until the very end, making it a tough contest.”