Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has quickly developed a strong bond with 17-year-old La Masia talent, bringing him into the squad to replace an injured star. The young prodigy’s potential continues to impress, with Flick showing confidence in his abilities. As the team faces crucial matches, the coach’s faith in the rising star highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing its future talent.
Hansi Flick and Barcelona Prodigy Share Heartwarming Bond
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has quickly built a strong bond with young midfielder Gavi since arriving at the club.
The Barça head coach has long admired the 20-year-old La Masia talent and appears to have formed a strong connection with him.
Since his arrival, the German coach saw Gavi as a key part of his tactical setup, developing a unique bond that goes beyond the usual coach-player relationship.
Flick’s approach to Gavi has been both professional and nurturing, reflecting a deep understanding of the young midfielder’s potential and character.
The bond between Flick and Gavi was poignantly showcased in the second chapter of the ‘Barça One’ documentary, highlighting the youngster’s recovery from injury.
The Moment of Tying His Laces
In one insightful training moment, Flick’s caring side is clearly evident.
While talking about Gavi’s versatility and strong mindset, the coach points out the player’s habit of neglecting to properly fasten his boots.
In a heartfelt moment, Flick kneels down to tie Gavi’s laces, only for the young player to finish the task himself as the manager gives him a supportive pat on the back.
Gavi also opened up about his first conversation with Flick, highlighting how effortlessly they connected.
“We understand each other because he speaks simple English. I speak a little, and the truth is when he talks, I understand. I respond in Spanish, but he understands me too,” the young midfielder explained.
Gavi revealed that Flick’s first message was one of patience and encouragement, saying:
“He asked how I was doing with the injury and told me to take it easy, that the team would be waiting for me.”
Flick’s supportive approach to Gavi’s recovery reflects Barcelona’s dedication to nurturing young talent, combining professional excellence with genuine care.
As the young midfielder progresses, his relationship with Flick may become a key factor in his footballing growth.
Barcelona Coach Brings in 17-Year-Old for Injured Star
Eric Garcia was included in Barcelona’s starting lineup against Bayern Munich last week, but an unfortunate injury during the pre-match warm-up ruled him out.
The manager substituted him with Fermin Lopez, and the rest is history as the La Masia talent registered two key passes and two assists and created several big chances.
Eric Garcia Will Miss the Espanyol Derby
Garcia, dealing with an adductor muscle injury, was originally expected to recover in time for the Espanyol match later this week in La Liga. However, SPORT reports that this may not happen.
The defender was absent from today’s training session with the first team, Barcelona’s second-to-last session before the derby.
Although his recovery is progressing well, and he has resumed training to some extent, he was still training separately from the group.
The player is likely to miss the Catalan derby on Sunday and may only be ready for the UEFA Champions League match midweek.
Hansi Flick Names a Replacement
Instead, Flick has brought in young Andres Cuenca to join Friday’s session, stepping in for Garcia and taking his spot in the squad.
Cuenca has joined the first team for training on multiple occasions but spent the past month with the B team under Albert Sanchez. He also made his club debut in the match against Young Boys earlier this season.
The manager is likely to start Frenkie de Jong and Dani Olmo against Espanyol, with the third midfielder spot set to be a choice between Pedri and Marc Casado.
Cuenca won’t play as a defensive midfielder, a role that’s been Garcia’s specialty this season. However, he could get some minutes at center-back if either Inigo Martinez or Pau Cubarsi are substituted.
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