Flick, critical of Barça: “We didn’t deserve more than a point”

Bitter Draw for Barcelona against Rayo Vallecano

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed his dissatisfaction after the 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano in LaLiga. The culé team, which faced a tough Rayo, only managed to salvage a point thanks to the outstanding interventions of their goalkeeper, Joan García. Lamine Yamal put Barça ahead from the penalty spot at the Vallecas Stadium. However, Fran Pérez equalized the score for Rayo in the second half, ending the Spanish champions’ perfect start to the season.

“We didn’t deserve more than a point,” Flick commented after the match. “We had a fantastic goalkeeper today, we made too many mistakes.”

Hansi Flick, Barcelona Coach

Flick emphasized the need to improve the team’s performance, pointing out the loss of balls and the mistakes made as key factors in the draw. “We made too many mistakes, and that’s why Rayo reacted. It wasn’t a good game for us. We have to play much better.” The Barcelona seemed on its way to its third consecutive victory when Yamal converted the penalty. However, the play was shrouded in controversy due to problems with the VAR, which prevented a proper review of the decision. Despite this setback, Rayo Vallecano reacted in the second half. Substitute Pérez, newly arrived from Valencia, scored a goal from a corner, securing the tie. Joan García, signed by Barcelona in July, was fundamental in avoiding defeat, making six crucial saves. He was named MVP of the match.

“Joan played a fantastic match and saved us a point,” added Flick. “I am very happy with his performance. It was the right decision to sign him.”

Hansi Flick, Barcelona Coach

Barcelona, which has played its first three matches away from home due to the remodeling of the Spotify Camp Nou, is two points behind leaders Real Madrid and Athletic Club. The team remains undefeated, but Frenkie de Jong acknowledged that the start of the season has not been as expected.

“We have to play much better than we have done today,” De Jong declared. “We lacked control and precision in passing. We have to win every game, so it’s not a good start to the season. But we have to move on.”

Frenkie de Jong, Barcelona Player

Many Barcelona players will join their national teams, and upon their return, the transfer market will be closed. Flick eagerly awaits the market’s closure on Monday and answered questions about the future of Fermín López, who is of interest to several Premier League teams, including Chelsea. The German coach called for team unity, above individual egos.

“We talk about the team, not the players,” Flick stated. “The most important thing is that, when the transfer market closes, everyone is 100% committed to this team. There are no egos, because egos kill success. Last season we played as a team, as a unit, and we have to get back to that.”

Hansi Flick, Barcelona Coach