Hansi Flick's press-conference ahead of the UCL match against PSG:
“PSG are a world-class team with a coach of the same level. I love them, it will be a challenge for us, and we’re looking forward to playing tomorrow.”
“Absences for tomorrow's match? I think what’s happening is part of our job. It’s certainly not ideal for the players, and every coach wants to have all their players. But this is the situation. The fans were also looking forward to seeing the match with some big players absent, but every team has high quality, and tomorrow will be a great game.”
“We always have to work on our match plan and the way we play. It’s all about positioning and controlling the ball. Tomorrow won’t be easy because they also like to press and win the ball. We have to play from start to finish at our best level. This is the Champions League, and this is what we expect from our players.”
Hansi Flick, on constant rotations in centre-back position: “It’s not that we haven’t found the formula, but rather how to approach the match against the opponent. Every team is different and we select based on that.”
Hansi Flick on the No. 9: “During the 90 minutes, we’ll need Lewandowski and Ferran. We’ll see who starts.”
Two seasons ago, in the Barça vs PSG match, Luis Enrique talked about pressing Araujo to win the ball. Do you take that into account?” Hansi Flick: “No. That happened in the past, and the situation is different now. I have confidence in Araujo’s strength; he’s an incredible and strong player, ready to give his best, which he has shown in previous matches, and I’m happy he’s in my team.”
“The match in Newcastle was very important for Rashford in terms of confidence. It’s not easy to come here from the Premier League. He’s doing well.”
“The QF exit against PSG two seasons ago? I’m not thinking about the past. My focus is on the present. This is a different team, whether PSG or Barcelona, and everything has changed.”
“Pedri? He has developed a lot, and that’s what I want from him. Everyone sees how amazing he plays on the pitch, but for the team, it’s important to have LEADERS on the field. In his position, he can be a LEADER. He’s also part of the team’s leaders. I talk to him all the time, and when he has an opinion about something, he expresses it; he doesn’t just always agree with me and say, ‘Yes, you’re right, mister.’ That’s a good thing.”
