Flick says Barça players “must take the next step” after Atlético Madrid loss

After suffering another European elimination, this time in the quarter-finals at the hands of Atlético de Madrid following last season’s semi-final defeat against Inter, FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick spoke to the media.

How is the dressing room?

We’re disappointed. We had many chances, especially in the first half. We had the opportunity to score the third goal, and in the end we conceded that goal.

Did Ferran’s disallowed goal prove decisive?

We played a fantastic match and played with one man less. I really appreciate that. We weren’t very lucky. That’s how it was and we have to accept it.

Were the small details decisive?

Yes, football is like that. We have to do things better, but in terms of mentality and attitude, the team gave everything. They did a fantastic job, but we didn’t manage it.

What message did you give your players in the dressing room?

I think we deserved to be in the semi-finals, but we have to accept the result. We played a great tie and I’m proud of my players. We have to accept the result.

What is Barça missing to win a Champions League? What is the next step?

The next step is to win the league, we’re on that path. It’s not done yet. We have to play together, have the right mentality, play as a team. Everyone is disappointed, and the fans surely are too. Everyone is disappointed because winning the Champions League is a dream. We are a young team, there are things to improve and we will do so next season. Now, the league.

How do you feel about the refereeing?

I don’t want to talk about that, because we won’t change it. We can’t change those things. We have to accept it. It’s good for you if I talk about it, but I don’t want to.

How do you teach the team to deal with moments like red cards, VAR interventions, disallowed goals?

The players have to take the next step. We are a young team and we will improve. I think what’s important today is what we are doing. We are working with the players. We are disappointed, of course. But this is football, and life.

Would it be special to win the league in a Clásico against Madrid?

For me, it doesn’t matter when we win it. The important thing is to win it. We can focus on LaLiga. It’s tough. Everyone thought we could do it, we’re disappointed, but we have to accept it.

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