Humpy, but successful. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick started the season with a win. The fact that Ilkay Gündogan was not involved fueled rumors about the 33-year-old’s departure
There was certainly no question of a commanding success. “We have to improve a lot of things,” said Hansi Flick after the 2:1 win in Valencia on Saturday evening, echoing what he had already said after the botched dress rehearsal against Monaco (0:3).
The fact that the Catalans came away with a black eye was also due to the crazy final minutes of the first half. Hugo Duro gave Valencia the lead in the 44th minute and shortly afterwards Yarek Gasiorowski cleared a shot from Barcelona’s Casado just off the line.
At the other end, keeper Marc-André ter Stegen made a hair-raising mistake, but after Hugo Duro’s left-footed shot, Pau Cubarsi scrambled the ball off the line at the last moment. Robert Lewandowski then scored with the last action before the final whistle to make it 1-1 – and turn the game around.
“We made more mistakes in the first half. The goal just before half-time was very important,” said Flick. “We did better in the second half.” Barcelona clearly led the statistics, with 18:6 shots on goal and 64 per cent possession speaking for themselves.
The fact that a flattering penalty turned the tide and Cubarsi should have been sent off with a yellow card midway through the second half is also part of the truth. Shortly afterwards, Flick sent off the 17-year-old. Valencia coach Ruben Baraja spoke of a “clear action” against Hugo Duro, saying that he had not recognized any foul on the penalty. “These things make it difficult. “
Flick’s “feeling” with Gündogan
The absence of Ilkay Gündogan caused irritation, with rumors swirling around the big earner’s departure. The salary saved would allow Barcelona to sign Dani Olmo and possibly even sign dream player Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao.
Gündogan had to be substituted against Monaco with a head injury, which according to Flick was also the reason for the DFB captain’s absence. “He injured his eyebrow on Monday and that’s why he stayed at home,” said the coach, who also left room for further speculation with his statements. “I’ve spoken to him a lot, but it’s something between me and him,” said the 59-year-old.
When asked about the rumors of a transfer, Flick said: “I have a good relationship with him. I have the feeling that he will stay. “