Hansi Flick Reflects on Pedri, Yamal, Ferran Torres and More After Athletic Club 0–1 Barcelona

Barcelona strengthened their position at the top of the La Liga table with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Athletic Club in Bilbao on Saturday evening.

The Catalan side did not produce their most convincing performance, but a moment of brilliance from Lamine Yamal in the second half proved decisive, securing all three points for Hansi Flick’s team.

Following the match, the Barcelona manager addressed the media in his post-match press conference, discussing the importance of the victory, Pedri’s role in the squad, Yamal’s decisive goal, and the team’s defensive performance, among other topics.

Flick pleased with hard-earned victory in Bilbao

Flick began by reflecting on the difficulty of securing a result away at Athletic Club and praised his players for managing the fixture following their demanding midweek schedule.

“Winning in Bilbao is never easy,” Flick said. “We had to manage the players’ minutes after Tuesday’s match. It’s positive because we kept a clean sheet and secured the three points.

“I said the same thing last season — one fewer match to play and three more points gained.”

Clean sheet a welcome result

Barcelona’s defensive display was also a key talking point, particularly given the number of opportunities created by the home side during the match.

“When we play our style, we sometimes concede chances,” Flick explained. “It doesn’t matter how high up the pitch we defend. A clean sheet is always something positive.”

Despite Athletic Club’s attacking pressure, Barcelona’s defence held firm to preserve the narrow advantage provided by Yamal’s strike.

Positive team spirit despite recent disappointment

Flick also spoke about the mood within the squad following their recent Copa del Rey disappointment against Atletico Madrid, where Barcelona failed to complete what would have been a remarkable comeback.

“I believe there is a special atmosphere within this team and I truly value it,” he said. “I appreciate how united they are and their attitude. Everything has been fantastic and I am happy.

“After the 3–0 result, even though we were eliminated, I saw a very positive atmosphere in training. The players remain focused on their work, and that is very important. It was not easy to win here, so achieving this result is fantastic.”

Pedri’s influence on the team

The German coach was also asked about Pedri, who has recently returned from injury and continues to play a vital role in Barcelona’s midfield.

“Pedri improves everyone around him,” Flick said. “He is a game-changer and he connects very well with his teammates. Dani Olmo also improved in the second half after coming on.

“Pedri is different, but what I saw from the whole team was equally important — they fought together as a unit.”

Yamal’s decisive moment

One of the standout performers on the night was teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, whose superb goal ultimately secured the victory for Barcelona.

Interestingly, Flick admitted that the young forward was not at his absolute best despite delivering the decisive moment.

“I do not think Lamine had his best game today, but he decided the match,” Flick noted. “When he has space, he can create opportunities. He also practises these kinds of plays that can win you a game.”

Yamal has been in outstanding form in recent weeks, even surpassing Lionel Messi’s goal tally during his first four seasons at the club.

Ferran Torres struggling for confidence

In contrast, Ferran Torres continues to search for form, with Flick acknowledging that the forward may be struggling with confidence.

“A number nine is always judged by the goals he scores,” Flick explained. “At the moment he lacks confidence.

“He is normally in good form, he is quick and he usually scores goals. But perhaps he is experiencing a period of bad luck and his confidence is not at its highest level. We need to work on that.”

Bernal substituted due to physical issue

Flick also clarified the reason behind Marc Bernal’s substitution during the match.

“He had a physical problem and had to come off,” the Barcelona manager confirmed.

Barcelona’s narrow victory keeps them firmly in control at the top of the league standings as they continue their pursuit of domestic success this season.