Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has called on his players to “get back to what makes us unstoppable” as they prepare for a crucial Champions League showdown against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.
Speaking to reporters, goalkeeper Iñaki Peña revealed that adapting to Flick’s high-risk approach, implemented after his summer arrival, had initially been a challenge. “We were a little shocked by the exaggerated idea that he had,” Peña admitted. “But little by little, you become convinced it’s better for you.”
Barcelona, who led LaLiga by nine points in November, now sit just two points ahead of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand. Flick described the recent setbacks as typical for a young squad. “We are a young team; it’s normal to have a few setbacks. But I’m completely confident in the team,” he said.
In the Champions League, Barcelona are currently third in their group, tied on points with fourth-placed Dortmund but ahead on goal difference. With three games remaining in the league stage, both teams aim to secure an automatic top-eight spot.
Hansi Flick, who previously managed Bayern Munich to a Champions League title, is no stranger to Dortmund. He won all five of his encounters with the German club during his Bayern tenure and emphasized the importance of being prepared for the “incredible atmosphere” at Dortmund’s iconic Westfalenstadion.
Dortmund coach Nuri Şahin praised Flick’s tactical expertise, calling him “an exceptional coach” and remarked on the balanced nature of the upcoming match. “I don’t think there’s a favourite tomorrow. We’re on the same level. We can win the game, but so can Barcelona,” Şahin said.
The match promises to be a pivotal moment in the Champions League group stage, with both teams eager to assert their dominance on the European stage.