Hansi Flick talks Lamine Yamal, Frenkie de Jong and Gavi ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League tie with Atlético Madrid

Barcelona's German coach Hans-Dieter Flick gives a press conference on the eve of their UEFA Champions League quarter final second leg football match against Club Atletico de Madrid at Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, on April 13, 2026. (Photo by Thomas COEX / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick spoke to the press on Monday ahead of this team’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano on Tuesday night.

Here’s a summary of Flick’s best quotes, including his thoughts on Gavi and Lamine Yamal, his expectations for the match and Frenkie de Jong’s status.

Gavi

“Gavi can play, of course. He’s a player who gives everything to this team and the club, and on the pitch he’s fearless, which is a very good situation, and we’ll see. Whether he starts in the eleven or not, we’ll see after training.”

Frenkie de Jong’s chances of starting

“Frenkie is in better shape than Bernal. We’ll see him today, but it will be difficult for him. Frenkie could even start, we’ll see what we decide, we’ll do it this afternoon.”

Lamine Yamal

“Lamine has been performing very well in recent matches, I’m very happy with him, and what I tell him is that he has to keep doing these things. He’s one of the best in one-on-one situations, and we have to help him and give him the opportunity. We have to play as a team; that’s the key tomorrow. I’m not worried about individual performances anymore. We have many high-quality players, but so do they. I’ve said that matches are often decided by moments, and I hope that one goes our way tomorrow.”

Expectations for the match

“I have a feeling it will be completely different from previous matches against them because the atmosphere in the stadium will be incredible. The fans know what they need, and it will be tough for us, but I believe in my team and what we can make happen, and it’s possible, why not? That’s what we have to focus on. I know we’re playing against Atlético, a team with very good players, and we’ll need to defend very strongly but also be brave in attack, to attack, press, and take advantage of every opportunity. If you look at the last match, that was perhaps the big difference between them and us. Maybe tomorrow will be completely different, and that would make me happy.”