Hansi Flick praises Barcelona’s performance as La Liga giants kick off title defense with massive win
By Luke Oluoch, August 24, 2026Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has hailed the Catalan club after kicking off their La Liga defense with a huge 5-0 win over Elche on Sunday, August 23, 2026.
Though admitting the performance was not perfect, the German coach said the context of the opponent made the win more important.
The emphatic performance puts the Catalan giants in fourth position in the La Liga standings, with Hansi Flick’s team matching Sevilla’s five goals scored despite the latter getting them from their opening two games.
Defended well
“We did well against a tough opponent who plays good football and is nice to watch. We defended well in the last line and the midfield, though in the first half we lost many balls, but in the end the result was good,” he told Barça TV.
The gaffer also had some encouraging words for Karim Adeyemi, who was among the goal scorers. The new arrival from Borussia Dortmund helped himself to a brace, with Raphinha, Anthony Gordon, and Fermín López providing the other goals.
“The substitutions were at the right moment with the right players, and I am happy for this,” he stated.
“The two goals are important for him and for his confidence,” he added.
Another of the goal scorers, Anthony Gordon, also lauded the team’s battling display, describing the win as a team effort.
“It is a top performance with five goals scored. I think we played a good game, and the defenders made some top challenges and blocks,” he stated.
The English winger, who was part of the World Cup squad in North America, also revealed he is settling in well at his new club after his move from Newcastle United. “I feel good. Since I arrived, the guys have welcomed me, and it is an amazing city with friendly people. I think I will get better and better the longer I am here.”
“It was his first goal, and he worked so hard. I am happy for him,” he added regarding match brace hero Adeyemi.
Barca’s fast start came a day after La Liga rivals Real Madrid needed a late Carlos Espí’a goal to silence Espanyol 2-1.
Jose Mourinho’s team is ranked sixth after the opening games.
Barcelona will be back in action on Thursday, August 27, 2026, with Athletic Bilbao coming to Camp Nou for their next La Liga clash.