Flick calls for Barcelona reaction after Atletico Copa thrashing

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick urged his players to deliver a strong response when they take on Girona on Monday in La Liga, following their 4-0 defeat at the hands of Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey.

The Catalan club suffered a heavy beating from Diego Simeones team during the semi final first leg on Thursday, yet Flick feels the squads mindset has got better over the intervening days.

"Atletico came prepared for the battle, it felt like a Champions League match and the opening 45 minutes were off the mark," Flick said to journalists on Sunday.

"We lacked the drive to compete effectively here, in all those one on one battles, they outshone us, more lively that is what I expect from my players.

"In todays session I liked the effort I observed and we need to carry that into tomorrows game."

On Saturday, Real Madrid overcame Real Sociedad to pull two points clear of title holders Barca at the summit of the standings.

Flick expressed confidence in his sides talent to prevail provided they bounce back from the setback at the Metropolitano.

"Losing to Atletico, a elite outfit, can occur now we press forward. We must concentrate on the campaign right through, its a marathon but anything can happen," the German added.

"When we function as a unit, all in at 100 percent, our potential is immense. Losses are part of it but the key is the comeback. That is what I hope to witness tomorrow."

Flick confirmed Brazilian forward Raphinha is available for the Girona clash but Marcus Rashford remains sidelined by a knee problem though it is getting better.

The manager highlighted Raphinhas availability as positive for the group.

"He matters a lot. I have always maintained that. We feel his absence. From training you notice it, across the board, he boosts the energy and the pace," Flick stated.

"That is the upside. Last year in my view he was the top performer globally."

Flick had voiced frustration over certain decisions by the officials during the Atletico reverse and on Saturday Barcelona lodged a formal grievance with the Spanish football authorities regarding refereeing inconsistencies.

That said Flick toned down his criticism insisting his team must own the Atletico reverse.

"The match was not lost because of (the referee), what we control we will adjust and we shall."