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Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has admitted that winning the Champions League remains a “dream” for his side after they were eliminated at the quarter-final stage by Atletico Madrid.
Barca have lifted the famous trophy on five occasions but have not won it since 2015.
Despite a spirited 2-1 victory on the night at the Metropolitano, the Catalan giants fell 3-2 on aggregate. Speaking to the press after the final whistle, a visibly disappointed Flick reflected on what might have been, citing a lack of luck and the impact of playing with 10 men following Eric García’s red card.
“We deserved to be in the semi-finals”
Flick was full of praise for his players’ efforts, particularly their explosive start which saw them level the aggregate score within 25 minutes.
Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres scored early goals as Barcelona fought from 2-0 down.
But Flick couldn’t hide his frustration at the fine margins that went against his side, including a disallowed goal for Torres in the second half.
“We played a fantastic game and we played with one player less. I appreciate it very much, but we haven’t had much luck,” Flick told Movistar Plus+.
“It was like that and we have to accept it. In terms of mentality and attitude, the team gave everything. They did a fantastic job but we didn’t achieve it.
“I think we deserved to be in the semi-finals, but we have to accept the result. We played a great tie and I am proud of my players.”
The Champions League Dream
When questioned about what Barcelona need to do to finally reach the summit of European football again, Flick pointed to the youthful nature of his squad while acknowledging the weight of the competition.
“Everybody is disappointed, and I’m sure the fans are too,” Flick admitted. “Everybody is disappointed because winning the Champions League is a dream. We are a young team, there are things to improve and we will do it next season.”
Focusing on the domestic crown
With the European journey over, Flick was quick to pivot the focus back to La Liga, where Barcelona currently hold a commanding nine-point lead at the top of the table. A potential title-deciding Clásico against Real Madrid looms large on the horizon.
“The next step is to win the League; we are on that path. It’s not done yet. We must play together, have a [strong] mentality,” he said.
“Now, the League. For me, it doesn’t matter when we win it. The important thing is winning it. We can focus on La Liga now. It’s tough… but we have to accept it.”
Flick also notably refused to be drawn into a war of words regarding the officiating, despite Barça playing the final stages of both legs with 10 men. “I don’t want to talk about that, because we won’t change it,” he insisted. “It’s good for you [the press] if I talk about it, but I simply don’t want to.”
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