‘For me this is the hardest thing’ – Hansi Flick opens up on Barcelona’s surprise struggle despite maintaining perfect La Liga start in Sevilla comeback

Although Barcelona sit top of La Liga with 21 points from seven matches, Flick conceded that managing high-profile players on the bench is proving to be his toughest assignment.

“In the end, to be honest with you, for me this is the hardest thing at the moment. I know everyone can be happy because we have enormous quality in the squad. But for me it’s not easy,” Flick said. “When I look at the bench and see that Gavi won’t play, Xavi [Espart] can’t play, [Jules] Kounde can’t play, Szczesny can’t play, it’s not easy.

“It’s not easy for me either because I’m close to everyone, I’m with everyone, and still I have to make these decisions. In the end, that’s how it is. I’m always thinking about the team. There is nothing personal. It’s about the team. That’s why we made this decision. In the end, yes, that’s my job. But it’s not easy at the moment.”