Hansi Flick says everything simply “clicked” for Barcelona as they swept past Athletic Bilbao on their return to Camp Nou, with the German boss also easing fears over a knock to Alex Balde.
Barça cruised to a comfortable win under the lights, looking sharper on the ball and far more decisive in the final third than recent weeks. Speaking to DAZN after the match, Flick praised the side’s aggression and composure against a Bilbao outfit known for pressing high.
“We knew they would press high and with good organisation when we played out from the back,” he said. “We had chances to score more, but Athletic are a tough team. Sometimes everything clicks, and today was one of those days.”
Joan García kept a clean sheet, something Flick welcomed without making too much fuss. “Of course I’m happy about that, but the important thing is winning matches. It’s also important how you win, and today we did it very well.”
Flick also relished being back at Camp Nou, where Barça played with far more swagger than their recent away showings. “Of course I’m happy. Everything went well. We controlled the game and scored the goals at the right moments.”
There was brief concern when Alex Balde was withdrawn at half time after taking a knock to the head, but Flick insisted there was nothing serious to worry about.
“He’s fine. At half time, we had to make a decision because he took a knock to the head,” he said, playing down any injury scare.
The win keeps momentum rolling as Barça look to stay in the hunt domestically and build confidence ahead of a busy run of fixtures. With key players returning to form and the Camp Nou crowd finally back behind them, Flick’s side might just be finding their stride.
