Barcelona technical director Hansi Flick insists his side must direct its complete attention toward Saturday’s fixture against Sevilla, dismissing external talk regarding a potential seventh victory or the upcoming Madrid derby. The Catalan club travels to the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium for Matchday 7 of the La Liga season, aiming to protect a flawless start to the domestic campaign before Atletico Madrid face Real Madrid later in the weekend.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Flick addressed whether the looming capital derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid would distract his squad. “For me, the most important thing is that we focus on ourselves,” Flick said. “We want to win, and that is the work we have to do in Sevilla.”
Facing a Different Barcelona and a Tough Test
Flick was questioned about Barcelona’s heavy 1-4 defeat at Sevilla during the previous season, but the German coach emphasized that his current roster operates under entirely different circumstances. “I must say first that I think we are now at a different level from what we had last year,” Flick told the newspaper AS.
Despite the strong start to the season, Flick warned that past form or league standings offer no guarantees once the whistle blows. “However, every match starts at 0-0, and Sevilla, especially at home, display a very good level,” he added.
Tactical Pressing and Ball Speed
Analyzing the opponent’s tactical setup, Flick noted that Sevilla relies heavily on man-marking and direct pressure across the pitch. This approach forces opponents to move the ball quickly and maintain constant mobility.
“Sevilla defend one-on-one, and they will try to press us in these situations,” Flick explained. “Because of that, it is important for us to play with confidence and get the ball out to the flanks.”
“It will be important for us to control the match and know how to do it facing a team that relies very much on man-marking,” Flick said. “We have to move the ball quickly, especially in our own half of the pitch, and try to move it from one side to the other.”
