Hansi Flick insisted on Barcelona’s ability to compete for trophies despite their defeat against Paris Saint-Germain, emphasizing that stumbling at this stage does not determine the fate of the season.
The Catalan club suffered their first defeat of the season, losing 4-2 in the third matchday of the Champions League, after entering the Parc des Princes fixture on the back of a consecutive winning streak across all competitions.
Flick said in his post-match remarks: “We are in October, and trophies are not won in October. The Champions League is decided in June.”
Acknowledging the hosts’ superiority, he added: “It was a great match from both teams, and Paris proved to be better than us.”
Continuing on the aspects that need correction, he noted: “We made too many mistakes with the ball, and we have to analyze the match. I also saw many good things.”
Regarding his players’ physical condition, he stated: “We were not in our best physical shape. I appreciate my players’ mentality and attitude, but fatigue showed today.”
Barcelona had secured 11 consecutive wins from the start of the season prior to their visit to Paris, and during the match, they managed to equalize twice through Xavi Espart and Lamine Yamal before late goals sealed the win for the French side.
Flick maintained a positive outlook, adding: “We have potential, and I am not negative. It was a good experience, and we have to improve.”
The German manager’s focus now shifts to El Clásico against Real Madrid this coming Sunday, October 25, after admitting that preparing for that encounter influenced some of his decisions in Paris, most notably resting Rodri from the starting lineup.
