Barcelona: Hansi Flick is confident his side will not be derailed by injuries as they prepare to visit Athletic Club on Saturday, aiming to maintain their lead over Real Madrid at the top of LaLiga. WIth a Champions League Round of 16 match against Newcastle United to follow on Tuesday, Barca suffered injuries to defenders Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde during their 3-0 win over Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final on Tuesday, a result that was not enough to overturn a four-goal deficit from the first leg. Midfielders Frenkie de Jong and Gavi also remain sidelined, but striker Robert Lewandowski is fit for the Athletic clash.
“These things happen, I’m not happy,” said Flick today. “We have to talk about what we can improve. That is always my responsibility. It’s not on the medical staff or the physios - it’s my responsibility. I want to talk to the doctors, the physios and the technical staff to see what we can do better. It’s about managing the team, and it’s not pleasant, especially at such a crucial moment. But we’re optimistic. This gives other players the opportunity to show how good they are.” Real Madrid’s shock 1-0 home loss to Getafe on Monday left leaders Barca four points clear after 26 matches. Athletic sit ninth.
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An email: “Re: the Jesse Lingard move to Corinthians. Jamal Lewis went on loan to Sao Paolo in September 2024 so I think Lingard will become the second Englishman to play in the Brazilian top flight,” writes Adam Griffiths, who is correct … but I’m not going to let that stop me splitting hairs. While Lewis is English and did indeed play six times for Sao Paolo, scoring one goal, he is a Northern Ireland international. Anyway, good spot, Adam.
