Flick Warns of Atletico's Desire for Copa del Rey Title


Barcelona manager Hansi Flick discusses the team's Copa del Rey semi-final return leg against Atletico Madrid, acknowledging the high stakes for their opponents.



Barcelona is on a remarkable 20-game unbeaten streak across all competitions, boasting an impressive record as the only team in Europe's top-five leagues yet to suffer a loss in 2025. As they pursue an impressive treble, manager Hansi Flick recognizes that their success will ultimately be measured by the titles they win.




Flick's team has been delivering exceptional performances, delighting fans with some of the best football seen this season. However, the manager remains focused on the challenges ahead, particularly the Copa del Rey semi-final return leg against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. The tie is evenly poised at 4-4 following a thrilling first leg in February, setting the stage for an intense encounter.


With the Copa del Rey title within reach, Flick emphasized that his team is ready to give it their all in the upcoming match. Barcelona's trip to Atletico Madrid promises to be a fiercely contested clash, and Flick's side is prepared to push forward with determination and intensity.


In addition to their Copa del Rey ambitions, Barcelona is also leading LaLiga by three points over Real Madrid and has secured a spot in the Champions League quarter-finals, where they will face Borussia Dortmund. Manager Hansi Flick expressed his hunger for more titles, stating, “I'm hungry to win titles and we're going all in.”


Flick emphasized the significance of the upcoming Copa del Rey semi-final return leg against Atletico Madrid, saying, “Tomorrow's game is like a final and it's a great opportunity for us.” He also expressed pride in his team's performance, noting, “We're proud of this team and how we're playing. It's not by luck that we've got this far: we deserve it.”




Flick praised his team's work ethic and attitude, saying, “I also want to thank everyone for their work. In every situation they gave the right answer. Their attitude is always the same, they always give their best and never give up.” He acknowledged that the team has improved, stating, “The team has improved and I have told them that. I am grateful for what they are doing.”


However, Flick also emphasized that titles are what truly matter in football. “But this is football, so what counts are the titles,” he said. Despite the team's progress, he remained focused on the challenges ahead.


Flick expressed satisfaction with the team's style of play, improvement, and dressing room atmosphere. “But so far everyone is happy with the style, the game and how the players have improved. I'm happy with the team and the atmosphere in the dressing room. We have to continue like this,” he said.


While acknowledging their past success in the Spanish Super Cup, Flick kept his focus on the present and future. “We won the Spanish Super Cup (against Real Madrid in January), but it's in the past. We want to reach the Cup final, but it won't be easy,” he added.


Hansi Flick acknowledged that Barcelona is aware of the high stakes for Atletico Madrid in their upcoming Copa del Rey semi-final return leg. Atletico's chances of winning a title this season are dwindling after being eliminated by Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 and losing momentum in the LaLiga title race.


Flick emphasized that the Copa del Rey is now Atletico's most achievable title, and they will likely give it their all. “(The Cup) is the title that's closest to them,” Flick said. “One game and they're in the final... But it's just like for us.” He also recognized Atletico's experienced coach, Diego Simeone, and his ability to win crucial games.


Despite Atletico's recent struggles in LaLiga, Flick warned that they remain a formidable opponent. “In LaLiga there is more to come, for sure, but Atletico have a fantastic coach, they know what they're playing for and they're convinced of what they're doing,” he said. Flick also highlighted Atletico's reputation for pushing until the very end, making them a difficult opponent to face. “They are there until the last minute, so it will be very difficult,” he added.



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