Spanish Super Cup final: I’m proud to manage such an incredible team, says Flick after Barca’s record-extending 15th title

Spanish Super Cup final: I’m proud to manage such an incredible team, says Flick after Barca’s record-extending 15th title

Hansi Flick praised his “incredible” Barcelona team after its 5-2 win against Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia on Sunday.

All of Barcelona’s goals came in the first half, as it took a 5-1 lead following Kylian Mbappe’s opener for Madrid.

“I’m very proud of the team, the staff, the club, the fans… everyone who supports Barça. I am proud to manage such an incredible team,” said Flick.

The Catalans were reduced to 10 men when Mbappe sped in at the other end, rounding goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, who brought him down outside the area, and after a VAR review was dismissed.

Rodrygo Goes, who earlier hit the post, rifled home the free-kick past Szczesny’s replacement Inaki Pena.

“After Szczesny was sent off, it wasn’t easy for anyone. We, the coaches, had a little discussion, and I thank them all because, in the end, we made the right decision. And Inaki did a great job, and we defended as a team. I loved it,” said Flick.

This win marked Barcelona’s 15th Spanish Super Cup title and Flick’s first trophy since he took over.

“We are a team. You could see that after the win, but it always shows. We stick together, and our aim is to learn from every game.”

“At big clubs, the goal is to win titles. And that’s what we’re working towards. We are very happy and proud but need to keep showing that we are the best in every game,” added Flick.

(With inputs from AFP)