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Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has appreciated Real Madrid's star striker, Kylian Mbappe ahead of the Classico in the Supercopa de Espana final. The two archrivals in LaLiga are set to cross paths for the third time in a row in a Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday, January 11.
Barcelona's upper hand against Real Madrid
Barcelona and Real Madrid have crossed paths only once so far this season in a LaLiga fixture in October last year. Los Blancos beat the Catalans 2-1, with all eyes on a hot clash in the final this week. Barca remained undefeated in nine games across all competitions so far, Hansi Flick never lost a final in his managerial career. On the other hand, Real Madrid will do their best to defeat the Catalan once again, especially after they lost the Supercopa final 5-2 last season.
In the pre-game press conference, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick appreciated Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe, who is uncertain to start in Sunday's final because of his injury. Flick said:
"Mbappé is the best striker currently. He's world-class."
Mbappe was not available in Real Madrid's 2-1 win against Atletico Madrid in the Supercopa de Espana semi-final this week due to a knee injury. However, he will be present for the final against Barcelona, although he might start off the bench.
Kylian Mbappe's red-hot form
Mbappe has been great so far, amassing 29 goals and five assists in just 24 outings for Los Blancos across all competitions.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick reacts on facing Real Madrid in the Supercopa final
In the aforementioned pre-game press conference, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick mentioned that they have four of the last five Classicos that were played in his tenure so far. Reflecting on preparations for the final, the German said:
"How many Clasicos have we played in the last year and a half? And how many have we lost? We’ve lost one. That’s what it’s about."
He added:
"Madrid has a fantastic team, but so do we. Everyone wants to win the title. Everyone will be watching the game. That’s what we have to focus on. Our responsibility is to enjoy ourselves and make sure our fans enjoy themselves too."
Last season marked Hansi Flick's first season at Barcelona, when the Catalans defeated Los Blancos four times. This consisted of the Supercopa de Espana final and the Copa del Rey final. Real Madrid will be aiming to change the results this time by winning the title.
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