Synopsis
FC Barcelona's head coach Hansi Flick emphasizes that the Copa del Rey quarter-final against Valencia will be a different challenge than their previous 7-1 victory. He highlights the importance of player workload and hints at adjustments due to Gavi's absence, paving the way for Dani Olmo's involvement.Key Takeaways
- Hansi Flick anticipates a different match against Valencia.
- The previous encounter ended in a 7-1 win for Barcelona.
- Player workload is a key consideration.
- Gavi will miss the match due to concussion protocols.
- Dani Olmo may step in during the second half.
Barcelona, Feb 5 (NationPress) FC Barcelona's head coach Hansi Flick stated that the upcoming Copa del Rey quarter-final clash against Valencia will differ significantly from their previous 7-1 victory.
The two teams had faced each other at the Estadi Olímpic, Barcelona's temporary venue, where the home side triumphed over Valencia on January 27.
Flick remarked, "The league match earlier in the season at Mestalla was challenging, with a complicated atmosphere. Tomorrow will resemble that. Additionally, as it’s a cup match, while we cannot secure the trophy, we can certainly lose it, which we aim to avoid."
"This match will be entirely different from the 7-1 win. We will exert ourselves once more, and we’ll see how it unfolds. They will apply pressure, and the crowd will support them. The ambiance will not replicate what we experienced recently at the Estadi Olímpic," Flick stated during a press briefing.
Despite the significance of the match, Flick emphasized, "We must consider the players' workload. We cannot compare players. We have a game on Thursday and another on Sunday. I require all my players to be healthy and available. They all possess exceptional talent, and each one will strive for the team, which is what truly matters," Flick added.
Regarding player availability against Valencia, Flick disclosed that Gavi, who recently extended his contract with the club until 2023, will miss the match due to concussion protocols, presenting an opportunity for Dani Olmo to play.
"Gavi is sidelined due to the head injury protocol, but Dani Olmo could feature in the second half."
"With the ball, Dani Olmo is a crucial player in midfield capable of scoring, ball control, and ball retention. He is very important for us, but we must ensure his well-being for consistency. We will monitor his condition closely and adapt accordingly. He will be vital for us in the upcoming weeks and months," concluded the Barca manager.
