Hansi Flick talks Raphinha, Lewandowski, Balde, Gerard Martin after Barcelona 4-3 Celta Vigo | OneFootball

FC Barcelona ensured they ended this matchday 32 of La Liga at least four points ahead of Real Madrid on the table as they came back from behind to beat Celta Vigo with a 4-3 scoreline in a roller coaster of a match last night.

The Catalans went down 3-1 at one point in the game, but were ultimately able to turn things around and get the full three points from this match.

Hansi Flick was naturally quite happy with his team’s performance and spirit on the night, and he expressed his happiness when he spoke to the press after the end of the game.

As SPORT has reported, the Barcelona coach joked that he actually likes these unpredictable games, but only if his team ends up winning:

“We knew we were playing against great teams, and we achieved great results. Celta is a great team with a clear idea, and the coach is doing a great job. These crazy games only appeal to me if you end up winning.”

Flick was particularly ecstatic with how his team responded after going two goals down:

“I’m happy with what we’ve done and how we responded after going 1-3 down. Seeing the team give everything and not give up — that’s the mentality we have, it’s crazy. I feel very proud. These are three very important points, and it wasn’t easy at all. But we didn’t throw in the towel, we tried everything to get it done. It was fantastic.”

Raphinha was ultimately the difference-maker for his team in this game, and the German coach highlighted how he brought out the best from the Brazilian star:

“Raphinha means a lot, as do all the players, but especially him. He was having a tough time in the first half, and I had encouraged him, trying to lift his spirits by telling him to think positively. In the end, he ended up inspiring his teammates.”

Although this was a special night for Barcelona, one aspect that soured it to some extent was the physical problem suffered by Robert Lewandowski. Flick provided an update on his situation in this presser:

“We have to see how Robert is doing; we’ll do an MRI tomorrow, and then we’ll know more.”

Meanwhile, Balde is already out with an injury. However, the Blaugrana coach was quite happy with how his replacement, Gerard Martin, is performing:

“Balde is at an impressive level this year; he has improved a lot, and I can say the same about Gerard. For me, Balde is one of the best left-backs. Gerard comes from the youth team and has also improved a lot.”

“They’re different, so it’s not fair to compare them. Today, Gerard gave everything on the pitch — we’ll see how he’s doing tomorrow and then decide. He might rest for the weekend game. I’m happy with both of them.”

There is no doubt that this was a crucial win for Barcelona, especially at this last phase of the season. Hopefully, the Catalans will continue to show this grit and fighting spirit to win all the games and end the season as the champions of Spain.