Before Barcelona play Atletico Madrid, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick explained Eric Garcia's place on the bench and the choice of Marc Bernal. Barcelona are first in the table, with Atletico Madrid second.
Garcia's playing arrangement
Flick said Garcia's place on the bench was due to a lack of full fitness and his trust in Bryan Fariñas. He replied: “Both things together”. Flick added: “Bryan has played well and is going through a fine period, and so is Lamine Yamal in this regard, and things are going very well. We have to manage Eric's playing minutes, and I am happy with his return to the squad, but he cannot play for more than 30 minutes.”
Bernal gets the selection
Marc Bernal was chosen ahead of Frenkie de Jong to fill Rodri's role. On choosing Bernal, Flick said: “Marc Bernal has done a wonderful job this season, and in every match he has taken part in he has looked good, and I am very happy with him”.
Flick wants quality and strength
Speaking to the media before kick-off, Flick said: “I want to see the team show its quality and strength, while being aware that playing here is not easy, because Atletico fight, and we have to fight too”
Possession and chances
Flick said: “The important thing is that we show our ability with the ball, and that we continuously try to create chances, and move the opponent and the ball.”
