Flick hints at Cancelo debut and sends a message to Xabi

The FC Barcelona coach, Hansi Flick, appeared at the press conference ahead of the league match against Racing de Santander.

The German manager took the opportunity to update the status of the squad and, above all, to give the green light to one of the most eagerly awaited returns or debuts for the Barça fans: the presence of Joao Cancelo on the pitch.

Flick was straightforward in confirming that the Portuguese full-back is ready to have an immediate impact. “Tomorrow Cancelo could play a few minutes. That’s something we have in mind against Racing,” stated the coach.

The versatility of the new Barça '2'

With these words, any doubts about the wing-back’s physical condition are dispelled, as he is set to become a key piece in the offensive scheme that the coaching staff aims to implement in the upcoming matches.

Regarding the qualities the Portuguese international brings, Flick was full of praise, highlighting his ability to unsettle opponents in the attacking half.

According to the coach, they were looking for a profile that would offer an extra dose of creativity: “Joao is fantastic and can give us a lot, also in attack, in the final third to get past the opponent.” This versatility from Cancelo allows the team to gain depth and tactical options that had been lacking until now.

A message of affection for Xabi Alonso

Beyond Barça’s current affairs, the press conference was marked by the recent departure of Xabi Alonso from Real Madrid. Flick, far from entering into controversy, showed his professional respect for the Basque coach.

“It’s football, it’s not my business. I can only say that I have a good relationship with Xabi. We met in Leverkusen and have stayed in touch,” explained the German, downplaying the media noise surrounding the eternal rival.

Finally, the Barça coach wanted to wish Alonso luck in his new professional stage, predicting that it won’t be long before he returns to elite coaching. “He’s a great coach with a promising future and I’m sure he’ll soon have a good project,” he concluded.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

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