Barcelona coach Hansi Flick emphasized the importance of learning quickly from their recent 3-0 defeat to AS Monaco as they gear up to start the new LaLiga season against Valencia this Saturday at Mestalla. Monaco's Lamine Camara, Breel Embolo, and Christian Mawissa all found the net in the second half, marking Barcelona's first loss in the Joan Gamper Trophy match since 2012.
Flick acknowledged the timing of the defeat, stating that it is better to face such challenges before the season officially commences. He stressed the need for thorough analysis, player feedback, and improvement strategies to be implemented before facing Valencia.
Barcelona's preseason preparations have been hindered by international commitments and injuries. Players like Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres made their first appearances in the recent match against Monaco, while others such as Eric García, Pau Cubarsí, and Fermín López are yet to feature. Additionally, key players like Ronald Araújo, Gavi, Pedri, and Frenkie de Jong are currently sidelined with injuries.
Despite missed opportunities in the Monaco game, particularly by Pau Victor, Flick highlighted the importance of capitalizing on scoring chances, especially for a team of Barcelona's caliber. He noted the team's lack of usual speed and combinations during the match and emphasized the need for improvement in ball retention and overall performance.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Valencia, Flick expressed confidence in the team's ability to bounce back and deliver a stronger performance. With several days of preparation remaining, Flick aims to fine-tune the team's tactics and readiness for the LaLiga opener.
Meanwhile, Barcelona bid farewell to long-serving player Sergi Roberto, who announced his departure from the club following the expiration of his contract. Roberto, emotional during the farewell event, expressed gratitude for his time at the club and conveyed his best wishes to his teammates and the fans.
Although talks for a new deal were held, Roberto's 18-year association with Barcelona has now concluded. Interest from clubs in Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, and England has been reported for the midfielder, known for his memorable goal in the historic 6-1 comeback against Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.
