Flick on Barca’s Super Cup win: “I saw the players dancing in the locker room…”

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick spoke at a press conference after his team lifted the Spanish Super Cup trophy in Jeddah, running out 3-2 winners over eternal rivals Real Madrid.

How do you feel after the match, and what does the title mean? “It’s fantastic. When you play a final, especially a Clásico, winning is fantastic. I’m very proud of the performance. That’s what I can say.”

What was the team’s celebration like in the locker room, and what’s your assessment of the game? “I saw the players dancing in the locker room. I think we were fantastic. Throughout the match, we played in our style. It wasn’t easy, but we fought together as a team. And that’s what matters.”

How important was Raphinha to winning the title? “His mentality is incredible. He missed the first chance and then, almost immediately, scored to make it 1–0. He gained confidence. On the field, Raphinha brings a huge amount of intensity.”

You’ve won all eight finals you’ve coached. What’s the secret, and what’s the message to the players? “Score one more goal than the opponent… This isn’t about me, it’s about the players. It’s 100 percent mentality and confidence. I never think about the past. Today’s final is important, and winning is always special.”

Do you think this title can carry Barcelona through the rest of the season? “We don’t know, because situations are different. Last season we were a few points back in the standings; now we’re ahead. But when you watch the team, you get a good feeling. I haven’t said it yet, but again I want to highlight how important the players who came on in the second half were. That’s the team spirit, and that’s what I like most.”

It’s a good showcase for Spanish soccer. What did you think of the atmosphere in Saudi Arabia? “I said it after the match against Athletic Club as well. The atmosphere was great. Today was a great game. They fought until the end. I’m happy to win. The reception and the atmosphere were fantastic.”

What does it mean to you to see Araújo smiling again? “Winning this title and being back on the field means a lot to him. We’re always supporting him. He’s an important player in the locker room and a very good player.”