In the first round of the Champions League group stage, Barcelona will host Feyenoord. Coach Flick spoke about the team's preparations at the pre-match press conference.

Is maintaining a good atmosphere in the locker room a major challenge for you this season?

Yes, I think it won't be easy, but it's our job and part of the players' job. Deciding the starting lineup is my responsibility. I see my players every day, and I will determine the most suitable starting lineup for each match after communicating with the team and analyzing the situation in detail. I try to communicate with the players regularly, explaining why they are not playing, but they must move forward, stay positive, and support their teammates.

You've said that the Champions League is the most important competition, your dream. But don't you think that winning a third consecutive La Liga title would represent complete dominance over Real Madrid and better reflect the value of consistent daily work?

Of course, that is also our dream and goal. We want to achieve a third consecutive league title, and I think that would be a very special achievement. We are working towards it, and if we can achieve it, it would be amazing.

We often see diving on the field, but such behavior is rarely punished. Do you think Barcelona should demand stricter penalties for players who dive?

That's not my job. I think the referees in both the Champions League and La Liga are of a very high standard, and there's nothing wrong with their officiating. I have nothing to add. I said a few months or even years ago that we should participate in this beautiful sport under the referees' direction. They do a great job, and their job is never easy, so we should trust and support them. Sometimes it's hard to accept from our perspective, but I try to stay calm and support them.

What's it like working with someone of Yamal's character? Will his personality be key to Barcelona winning their sixth Champions League title?

Lamine Yamal is a player who can decide a game on his own. He is not only talented but also eager to improve. Now that he is captain, I can see his sense of responsibility. In our daily interactions, I can feel his passion for football, and I think that's the best thing. He's in great form.

Last season, Gordon contributed 5 assists in 45 games for Newcastle, while this season he already has 4 assists in 4 games for Barcelona. How do you assess his integration and performance?

As a forward, he really wants to score goals. He's had quite a few chances, and although he missed them, he delivered the final pass, which is also very important. I believe he will score goals—I have no doubt about it and I'm not worried. He's doing well, and I'm very satisfied with his performance both offensively and defensively. His contributions are good for both him and the team.

Is Barcelona willing to compromise on their style for the Champions League?

We often adjust our style based on our opponents, and while we won't make major changes, we will adjust when necessary. We have our style and philosophy, and I think this approach has been very effective over the past two years. Last season we did struggle a bit against Atlético Madrid, but that's football—it can't always be smooth sailing. At crucial moments, we also need every player in the team to perform at their best. Let's wait and see. I'm very pleased with what I've seen in these four games, and we must keep it up.

What are the plans for Cubarsí? Could he get a chance tomorrow?

No, he won't be with the first team tomorrow, but he's performing well and trained today. Our plan for him is to train with the first team while playing for the B team. He's gelling well with his teammates, and I can see his potential both defensively and offensively, which pleases me greatly. I see my players every day, and he also has a chance to play for us.

The Ballon d'Or is a hot topic lately, and Mourinho is already campaigning for his players. Do you think this year's Ballon d'Or winner is on your team?

We have many outstanding players, and I would be very happy if one of them won the Ballon d'Or. Let's wait and see; it's not my job, but I truly believe we have strong capabilities. I also highly value the attitude and mentality that our players demonstrate every day, so I think some players in my squad have the potential to win the award.

How is De Jong doing? Do you still consider him a key player?

De Jong is very capable, and I'm glad he's on our team. He suffered an injury at the World Cup and needs time to recover. He's working on his rehabilitation, and his progress is consistent with our expectations. I think we'll see him back on the field in a few weeks, possibly after the international break. We have to take it step by step. I spoke with him this morning, and everything is going well.

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