Barcelona VS Monaco : FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has promised a stronger performance in Valencia on Saturday, following a disappointing 3-0 loss to AS Monaco in the Joan Gamper Trophy match. The defeat ended Barcelona’s record run of twelve consecutive victories in the preseason tournament and left many fans and pundits concerned about the team’s readiness for the upcoming La Liga season.
Spanish sports daily *SPORT* criticized the Blaugrana for playing “without spark, without intensity, without pressure, [and] without speed,” highlighting issues with slow ball circulation and a lack of defensive solidity. With just five days remaining before their La Liga opener against Valencia, the paper noted that the “feelings are not good at all.” Barcelona VS Monaco
Despite the criticism, Flick remains optimistic about his team’s prospects. Speaking after the match, he acknowledged the poor performance but expressed confidence that Barcelona would bounce back at the Mestalla. “I know what this team can do. It wasn’t our game, we weren’t good, but in Valencia, we’ll do it differently. I’m sure we’ll have another performance,” Flick stated.
Flick emphasized the importance of learning from the loss, noting that it is better to lose now than during the season. He also praised the atmosphere at Montjuïc Stadium, urging his players to channel that energy into a better on-pitch performance. “When we play fast, the reaction of the crowd is perfect, so we have to provoke that emotion from the pitch,” Flick added.
Barcelona VS Monaco
Reflecting on the match, Flick mentioned that Barcelona had a chance to take the lead early, which could have changed the course of the game. However, slow play in the first half and a critical mistake in the second half allowed Monaco to dominate. “We can play better. We have five days to prepare for the match against Valencia, to improve the pressure and our game. I’m sure we’ll do better on Saturday,” Flick reiterated.
New signing Dani Olmo, who recently joined from RB Leipzig, may make his debut against Valencia if registered in time. Flick, who knows Olmo from his time in the Bundesliga, praised the forward’s ability to score goals and make a difference on the field. The 2024 UEFA European Championship Golden Boot winner is expected to add firepower to Barcelona’s attack. Barcelona VS Monaco
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s preparations for the new season also include potential changes to the squad. Reports suggest that the club has instructed Ansu Fati’s agent to find a new team for the young forward, as Dani Olmo is expected to fill his usual position on the left side of the attack. Barcelona VS Monaco
As Barcelona gears up for their La Liga debut, all eyes will be on Flick and his squad to see if they can deliver a much-needed turnaround in form and start the 2024/2025 season on a positive note.
Read also
Barcelona vs Real Madrid Pre Season Friendly: Barcelona won 2-1 in New Jersey El Clasico
Julien Alfred Clinches Historic Gold in Women’s 100m at Paris 2024
