Hansi Flick showers praise on Barcelona hero following Espanyol triumph: "I have to thank him"

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick walked away satisfied after his side secured a crucial derby victory over Espanyol in Week 18 of La Liga, underlining the importance of the result while singling out a standout performer for special praise.

Hansi Flick stresses importance of derby win

Speaking after the final whistle, Flick made it clear that the three points mattered as much as the performance, especially in the context of the league race.

“I’m happy with the three points,” Flick said in his post-match press conference, before adding that “it’s very important to win these matches.” The German coach reiterated the broader significance by stating, “It’s very important for the league.”

Barcelona entered the derby knowing that any slip-up could prove costly in a tightly contested La Liga season. While the win helped steady their momentum, Hansi Flick acknowledged that it did not come easily.

Barcelona made to suffer despite victory

Despite emerging victorious, Flick admitted his side faced challenges throughout the encounter.

“We have things to improve,” he said, openly conceding that Barcelona “suffered” during spells of the match. He was quick to credit the opposition, noting that “Espanyol played very well,” but also emphasized the quality within his own squad.

“In the end, we scored two goals,” Hansi Flick added, highlighting Barcelona’s ability to find decisive moments even when under pressure.

The coach also praised the contribution of his substitutes, pointing out that players coming off the bench played an important role in seeing the game through.

Joan Garcia earns special praise from Flick

Among all the performances, Flick reserved his highest praise for goalkeeper Joan Garcia, whose display proved pivotal on the night. The Barcelona coach did not hesitate to elevate the young shot-stopper’s status, calling him “one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”

“I have to thank him,” Flick said, acknowledging Garcia’s decisive saves during key moments of the derby. He further highlighted the qualities that impressed him most, describing the goalkeeper as a player who “has confidence and is always focused.”

Garcia’s performance not only helped Barcelona secure the win but also reinforced Hansi Flick’s trust in him as a reliable presence in high-pressure matches. In a derby where margins were thin, the goalkeeper’s composure and consistency stood out as a defining factor in Barcelona’s triumph.