Hansi Flick: “happy” with De la Fuente and excuses Raphinha

Hansi Flick, Barcelona head coach, spoke ahead of the match against Racing de Santander and was asked about an international break that left him without most of the squad “for almost three weeks.” Regarding Raphinha, even though he returned “touched,” Flick said the selection commitment matters most and that the Brazilian shows “mentality and attitude,” adding that he “always gives 100%.” The German also called for “reflection” on whether it was necessary for him to play in Australia because of the travel distance and the Nations League calendar.

Praise for Spain’s coach

In the same press conference, Flick praised Spain boss De la Fuente. He said he greatly appreciates what De la Fuente is doing “with my players,” described a “very good” relationship and concluded that it is “the best selection in the world.” He also argued that, in the past, friendlies made trips possible, but now “it’s impossible” due to the schedule, and said he has to “manage minutes” at his club, according to Mundo Deportivo.