Barcelona coach Hansi Flick says he will maintain the same style of play he deployed against Real Madrid in the first El-Clasico of the season.
Recall Real Madrid were caught offside 12 times against Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu in October, going on to lose 4-0 to a rampaging Barcelona side.
Ahead of the Super Cup clash, the German tactician sees no reason for a change in style of play.
How we played in the Clasico was at that moment. We did very well. There’s no reason why we have to change our style of play,” he said.
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“We want to play as a team. Everyone has to contribute. You can’t match Madrid. We want to play at a high level and win,” he added.
The Blaugrana secured their spot in the final with a semi-final victory over Athletic Club earlier this week.
Buoyed by their previous emphatic win against Real Madrid this season, Barcelona enters the contest with confidence.
A major boost for the Catalan side is the availability of Dani Olmo, who is back in the squad after successful re-registration.
“Yes, obviously. He can play. He’s delighted and happy and he’ll be back in the team,” said Flick.
Discussing the challenge posed by Real Madrid, Flick highlighted the strength of their rivals.
“They are one of the best teams in the world, we have a tremendous team,” he stated. “We can do it. Mistakes were made against Athletic. They are one of the best teams in transition. We have to reduce the mistakes.”
One of the key decisions Flick faces is choosing between goalkeepers Inaki Pena and Wojciech Szczesny.
Pena’s tardiness in training recently led to Szczesny starting against Athletic.
Addressing this dilemma, Flick remarked: “I never talk about the starting eleven for tomorrow. He [Szczesny] played a good game and Inaki had a great first half of the season. That’s how it is.
“In Spain maybe there is a different mentality, but this I have to explain. The noise outside is very loud. They are professionals. They have to be on time. It’s the third time it’s happened, and I had no choice. You can arrive earlier; it’s not a problem.”
Another decision for Flick is whether to reintegrate Olmo into the starting lineup or stick with Gavi, who impressed against Athletic.
“Gavi performed at a great level in the last game. It gives you different elements. I haven’t made up my mind,” the manager admitted.
Reflecting on the mood within the squad ahead of their first shot at a trophy this season, Flick expressed optimism.
“The coaches have to prepare for the match. For everybody, it’s a Clasico, it’s the Super Cup. If we win this game, we can feel more confident. It will be a great victory for the club.”
