The Fútbol Club Barcelona has closed its chapter at the Estadio Olímpico Lluís Companys with a bittersweet taste after losing 2-3 to Villarreal. Despite the defeat, the culés had already secured the title of LaLiga EA Sports last Thursday, allowing them to approach this match without pressure.
Coach Hansi Flick was candid in the post-match press conference, downplaying the loss and emphasizing that his team will work harder to evolve next season. “When I arrived, I saw the potential of this team, not only football-wise but also human-wise. The connection with the fans is incredible,” stated the German coach.
Throughout the season, Barça faced tough moments, especially in November, where they accumulated three negative results. However, Flick highlighted the confidence and desire for improvement among his players. “We always had confidence. In every training session, you could see their eagerness to improve,” he commented.
The culé squad celebrated their league success with a party at the stadium, bidding farewell to their fans until next season, where a return to the Camp Nou is anticipated. “They deserve to celebrate,” Flick added.
Despite the defeat, Barça bids farewell to Montjuïc with a positive balance, having been the best team in the league with 85 points and 99 goals scored. The loss to Villarreal was the first in 17 matches, breaking an unbeaten streak that had been maintained since December. “The match against Atlético was a turning point,” Flick recalled, who is confident that his team can match their best second half of the season in history.
With an eye on the upcoming match against Athletic Club, Barça will seek to close the season with a victory that consolidates their dominance in Spanish football.