Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is brimming with optimism as he prepares for his team’s upcoming Champions League match against Young Boys on Tuesday. A key factor in his positive outlook is the anticipated return of midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who has been sidelined since April due to a significant ankle injury. With his inclusion in the squad for the match, Flick believes that De Jong’s presence will be crucial, even if he can only contribute for a limited time.
The 27-year-old Dutch international’s absence has been felt deeply by the Catalan giants, especially since he also missed the European Championship this summer. His return to training has injected a sense of hope and energy into the squad, and Flick expressed his enthusiasm during a press conference on Monday. “This is super good news to have Frenkie back with us. Whether it’s for five or 10 minutes, he’s very important for us,” he stated, highlighting the midfielder’s integral role in the team’s dynamics.
Flick went on to praise De Jong’s commitment throughout his recovery process. “Frenkie’s attitude is great. He’s been involved with the team, he’s been willing to help us, and we needed his presence,” he noted. The coach acknowledged that while De Jong may not yet be ready to play a full 45 minutes, he believes that a brief appearance of 10 to 20 minutes on the pitch will greatly benefit both the player and the team as they navigate their challenging schedule.
The backdrop to De Jong’s return is a Barcelona team that is grappling with several injury concerns. Alongside De Jong, key players such as Gavi and Ronald Araujo are currently sidelined, adding to the challenges Flick faces as he prepares his squad for the high-stakes match against the Swiss champions. Additionally, Eric Garcia will miss the game due to a suspension following a red card he received during Barcelona’s disappointing opening match against Monaco.
This loss to Monaco marked a challenging start to their Champions League campaign, highlighting Barcelona’s struggles in European competitions in recent years. The Catalan giants have been striving to regain their former glory, having last lifted the prestigious Champions League trophy in 2015. Flick is acutely aware of the pressure to perform, particularly given the club’s rich history and expectations. “Last season, we reached the quarter-finals for the first time in four years, but we know we need to do better,” he remarked, acknowledging the uphill battle ahead.
In light of these challenges, Flick has remained resolute in his belief that the team can overcome adversity. “We want to win all the games, both the team and I as coach, and I’m very positive we can do that,” he asserted confidently. His emphasis on a winning mentality reflects the culture he aims to instill within the squad, one that prioritizes hard work, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to success.
Flick also underscored the importance of the team’s training regimen, suggesting that the players have been diligently working to refine their skills and tactics. “We work well, train hard, and play good entertaining football. If we need to gain the respect of our opponents once again, then we’ll work hard on that,” he stated. This proactive approach to preparation is indicative of his determination to build a squad capable of not only competing at the highest levels but also entertaining fans with their style of play.
As Barcelona approaches the clash with Young Boys, the return of Frenkie de Jong is more than just a boost to the squad’s morale; it signifies a potential turning point in their season. With Flick’s leadership and the collective efforts of the players, the team is hopeful that they can leverage De Jong’s presence to secure a vital victory that can propel them forward in the Champions League.
In a broader context, this match represents an opportunity for Barcelona to reaffirm their status in European football. The team is keen to shake off the disappointment of their previous campaign and lay the groundwork for a successful run this season. As fans rally behind their beloved club, the pressure mounts, and the desire to see the team reclaim its former glory is palpable.
With the eyes of the football world watching closely, the upcoming match against Young Boys will not only test the squad’s resilience but also serve as a platform for showcasing the depth and talent of the Barcelona roster. As they look to build on their past successes and rise through the ranks of European football once again, every match becomes a crucial stepping stone in their journey. The anticipation is building, and the team is ready to make a statement in the Champions League, starting with this pivotal game.
