New Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised striker Robert Lewandowski and the “good mood” in his side after a 2-1 home win over Athletic Bilbao gave them six points from six in La Liga for 2024-25.
Spanish striker Lamine Yamal put Barca ahead with a curled shot in the 24th minute from long range, with Oihan Sancet netting an equalizer from the penalty spot 20 minutes later.
Lewandowski, who has already hit the woodwork twice, headed home the winner in the 75th minute, continuing the 36-year-old's strong form following his goals in Barca's 2-1 win at Valencia.
The flick is perfect. pic.twitter.com/sJlezvxOlk
– FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 24, 2024
“It's not easy with our high pressure and the risks we take – anything can happen but we're doing well,” said former Germany manager Flick.
“[Lewandowski] you are always dangerous, no matter how old you are. We have a good spirit in the team and the attitude is good. Everyone is responding really well. We won twice and got six points, which helps us.”
Celta Vigo are the only team on a two-game winning streak, although a number of other teams are playing their second games of the season on Sunday.
Reigning champions Real Madrid will be among them when the UEFA Champions League holders host Real Valladolid (4pm BST).
Don't mess with this guy pic.twitter.com/a7LCy1eFeg
– FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 24, 2024
Madrid drew 1-1 at Mallorca and could be without inspirational striker Jude Bellingham for weeks after the England international suffered a calf injury.
Flick is delighted to see one of his midfielders, Pedri, return from the injury the 21-year-old picked up against La Roja at Uefa Euro 2024.
“My staff does a great job with him,” Flick said. “Pedri came back really well from injury. He played really well, balancing the team, defending the ball with patience and coordination. It's nice to see him off the field.
Robert's stuff.#LaLigaHighlights pic.twitter.com/xzhYOrmkiJ
– FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 24, 2024
“We have to continue to improve and we are working to do better in the next game. That is our goal and that is how things will work out for us.
“It is true that there are important pieces missing but even though we are not at 100 percent, the situation is good and we are improving.”
One of Flick's absentees is £51 million signing Dani Olmo, who has yet to be registered due to Liga rules regarding club usage.
Source link
