Manager hails his side for fighting for victory at difficult ground
Hansi Flick has said Pedri makes everyone at Barcelona better after the Spaniard helped his side to a 1-0 win over Athletic Club on Saturday.
Flick left Pedri and Raphinha on the bench at San Mames after both players suffered hamstring injuries recently, but there was a noticeable drop in quality as Athletic Club looked the better of the two sides going forward.
Pedri was introduced after the break and was soon the creator as Lamine Yamal scored to grab victory for La Blaugrana.
“I said it before, Pedri makes everyone better,” said Flick. “He changes the game. He connects very well. Olmo also played better in the second half. But the important thing is that everyone fought as a unit.
“It’s not easy to play here [at San Mames]. I think we had to manage the minutes after Tuesday’s game [against Atletico Madrid]. I really value the win. And we kept a clean sheet.”
Flick praised his team for their spirit to secure a win at a difficult ground.
“I really appreciate them for what I see,” Flick said of his squad. “I wasn’t nervous today. I saw them after it the 3-0 and I had confidence in them.
“That’s what we’re aiming for: this great atmosphere and focusing on daily training. Today it was clear that it’s not easy to win in this great stadium, with this great team and great fans. It’s amazing to win here.”
