Barcelona coach Hansi Flick and defender Pau Cubarsi have urged their teammates to remain focused and disciplined as they prepare for a challenging UEFA Champions League encounter against Galatasaray in Istanbul.
Barcelona face the Turkish giants at RAMS Park on Tuesday, with Flick acknowledging the influence of the home crowd and Galatasaray’s attacking quality.
Speaking ahead of the match, Flick described the stadium’s atmosphere as one of the best in world football and stressed that Barcelona must match the hosts’ intensity.
“The atmosphere is incredibly loud, and at certain moments, the noise and intensity here can reach extraordinary levels,” Flick said.
The German coach praised Galatasaray’s development, particularly in attack, and called for a collective effort from his players.
“We have to respond accordingly. They have improved a lot as a team, particularly in attack. We must play as a team and move together,” he added.
Flick insisted that Barcelona’s recent performances would count for little unless they maintained their standards in Istanbul. He also dismissed questions about the upcoming Real Madrid clash, saying his immediate priority was Tuesday’s European assignment.
The Barcelona manager confirmed that Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus had impressed him, although his availability for the match would be assessed on Tuesday. Flick also emphasised that securing victory mattered more than the margin, saying he would be satisfied with a 1-0 win.
Cubarsi Warns Barcelona About Galatasaray’s Home Pressure
Cubarsi echoed his coach’s concerns, highlighting the importance of concentration, defensive organisation and attention to detail against a dangerous opponent.
“We know the atmosphere here, and we have to stay focused. We need to pay attention to the small details because they will be very important,” the young defender said.
The 19-year-old also acknowledged Barcelona’s need to improve defensively, particularly in difficult away fixtures, and stressed the importance of keeping a clean sheet.
Cubarsi identified Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen as a significant threat, describing the Nigerian forward as one of the world’s best strikers. He said Barcelona would rely on a collective defensive effort rather than focus solely on individual opponents.
“We don’t prepare for just one specific player; we prepare for the team,” Cubarsi explained.
Cubarsi Backs Lamine Yamal for Ballon d’Or
Away from the immediate challenge, Cubarsi praised teammate Lamine Yamal, describing the young winger as the best player in the world and backing him to win the Ballon d’Or.
For Barcelona, the message ahead of the Istanbul encounter remains clear: withstand Galatasaray’s intense home support, stay compact defensively and deliver a disciplined team performance to secure a positive Champions League result.
