Flick demands more Barca 'fight' amid injury crisis

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick urged his squad on Saturday to display greater determination as the team grapples with an injury epidemic and efforts to regain peak performance.

The Catalan powerhouse ended in a 3-3 stalemate against Club Brugge during Wednesdays Champions League encounter, sitting five points adrift of La Liga frontrunners Real Madrid ahead of Sundays clash with Celta Vigo.

Following their domestic treble triumph last campaign, Barca have faltered in maintaining form under Flicks ongoing tenure, hampered by multiple player absences.

They will miss Raphinha, Pedri, Joan Garcia, and Gavi at Balaidos, with Flick noting Jules Kounde as an uncertainty for the fixture.

"This is not a justification, it is reality, we are dealing with numerous injuries to vital squad members, including some of our most crucial ones," Flick stated in a press briefing.

"Everyone recognises the need for improved performances, and once these players return after a couple of games, they should be in fine shape to contribute significantly. This could mark a fresh beginning.

"In the interim, especially for tomorrows outing, we must battle hard. We lacked that intensity on Wednesday, which we desperately require. Let us hope it emerges tomorrow."

Celta Vigo enter the match buoyant, having secured victories in their previous five outings across various tournaments, as per Flicks assessment.

Barcelona talent Lamine Yamal shone brightly versus Brugge, and the manager praised his enhanced commitment in overcoming a persistent groin concern.

"His approach has transformed for the better, he is putting in excellent training sessions now," Flick commented.

The 18-year-old has received a summons from Spain for forthcoming World Cup qualifiers, prompting the coach to request that national team head Luis de la Fuente handle Yamal with caution.

Back in September, Yamal worsened his groin injury during Spain duty, leading to his exclusion from the October squad due to the recurring issue.

"He has returned to top form, yet the matter persists, requiring careful management from both club and country," Flick concluded.