Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has expressed his gratitude following Lionel Messi’s recent praise for the Catalan club’s form, particularly highlighting the impact of their young talents, Soccernet.football reports.
Though Messi departed the club a few years ago, his connection to Barcelona remains strong, and his admiration for the team under Flick’s leadership has not gone unnoticed.
The Argentine legend, who spent almost his entire career at Barcelona, shared his appreciation for the current squad, especially the emerging players. Messi, a product of La Masia, expressed pride in seeing the club’s youth represent the first team with such success.
Reflecting on his observations, Messi said: “It’s such a proud moment to see how the first team is being represented right now. This isn’t new; it’s something that’s always been part of Barcelona. I think it’s fantastic that young players are getting their chance.
“When you give them confidence, they deliver because they know the club and are accustomed to its style of play. When supported, amazing things happen, just like in the past.”
Messi’s comments came as a boost to the young players making their mark at Barcelona under Flick’s guidance, including Pau Cubarsi, Lamine Yamal, and Marc Casado.
These players have impressed despite their limited experience, showing they can handle the pressure of top-tier football.
Flick, who has been heavily reliant on youth talent, expressed his appreciation for Messi’s words in a press conference ahead of Barcelona’s match against Celta Vigo.
“It’s an honour to hear the best player in history say he likes this Barça. He follows the team closely and has his heart in this club. That means a lot to the young players and the squad,” Flick started as per MundoDeportivo.
Barcelona trade tackles with Celta Vigo on Saturday night in their first game after the November international break.
The Catalans top the Spanish La Liga table with 33 points, which is more than second-place Real Madrid who have played one fewer game.