Barcelona coach Hansi Flick speaks to the media ahead of his team’s match against Real Betis, which will be Barcelona’s final home game of the 2025/26 La Liga season.
While the game itself remains important for the Catalan side, much of the focus at the press conference was on Robert Lewandowski after the experienced striker confirmed he will leave Barcelona at the end of the season.
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Flick made it clear that Barcelona still wanted to finish strong at home, despite the emotional backdrop surrounding the incident.
“It’s always important to have goals and one of them is to win every home game.
“We are facing a very strong team that has been consistent in recent seasons and has players of outstanding individual quality.
“It won’t be an easy game but we hope to end the season with a win at Camp Nou”
Lewandowski’s special farewell plan
The Barcelona boss also confirmed that Lewandowski will start the game as part of his farewell campaign at Camp Nou.
Lewandowski will leave Barcelona at the end of the season. (Photo by Aito Alcalde/Getty Images)
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Discussing the striker’s departure and Barcelona’s plans moving forward, Flick said:
“Robert deserves a special send-off and that starts tomorrow; he deserves it. We have time to work out how to compensate for his departure and time to focus on the transfer market.
“As for next season, we still don’t know what will happen, but we are looking at our options.”
The Germany boss then emotionally reflected on his relationship with Lewandowski over the years and revealed the striker had privately bid farewell to the dressing room.
“We have spoken about it and he has said goodbye to the team. This is a very important period for him at Barcelona.
“Robert and I worked together for four years; we won nine championships together and it’s been an honor to share that journey.
“He is a great professional who always strives to perform at the highest level and he is also a role model for young players. Now we have to start rebuilding the team.”
Flick went on to emphasize Lewandowski’s influence beyond goals and performances.
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“He’s a role model for all of us. He always gives it his all and it’s a privilege to work with him and see the hard work he puts in every day.
“More importantly, he was always there during the most difficult times.”
The Barcelona coach also briefly touched on possible exits during the summer transfer window, saying,
“I don’t think there will be any more departures, although in football you can never rule anything out.”
About the competition
Frenkie de Jong will be out tomorrow. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
In addition, the German coach also confirmed that there will be changes to the lineup against Betis, while providing the latest information on several players.
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“Tomorrow we will see a different team to the Victoria game.
“Frankie won’t play because he’s not feeling well, that’s been decided.
“As for Rashford, we still have to wait and see, although there is a chance he will be with us.”
Flick also revealed that Andreas Christensen may get playing time in the game.
“The plan is for him to get a few minutes tomorrow. We evaluated him in the last game, although you always have to manage each game as it unfolds.”
goalkeeper situation
Finally, the Barcelona coach clarified the goalkeeping situation and explained why Joan Garcia will start.
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“This decision has nothing to do with the Zamora Cup.
“The important thing is to manage Joan’s minutes. Szczesny deserves the last game and tomorrow it will be Joan Garcia’s turn.”
Source:AS
