Barcelona boss Hansi Flick expects transfer window to remain quiet after Rayo Vallecano win

Hansi Flick says he does not expect Barcelona to make any further additions in the transfer window after describing the signing of Gabriel Jesus as a “top-class” deal.

The Barcelona manager was speaking after his side moved to the top of the table with a 5-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano at Spotify Camp Nou on Monday. The result came in the third round of the season and ensured Barcelona maintained their position at the summit.

“I don’t know if there will be any more moves or not.. I don’t think so, but we’ll see what happens, and I rule out anything new happening,” said Flick when asked about possible transfer activity.

Flick also praised the work of sporting director Deco in completing the move for Gabriel Jesus, who he believes can make a significant contribution to the team.

“Gabriel is a top-class striker and can give us a lot. He was coming back from an injury, and I think he is fine. I spoke to him this afternoon and he was surprised. I like his style and the way he plays, he fits our way of playing, and it is a great signing and excellent work by Deco,” he said.

Barcelona produced an impressive first-half display against Rayo Vallecano, although Flick admitted his players must improve their control of matches, particularly when playing at home.

“In the first half we played wonderfully, and we had a good reaction after conceding the goal, which was something that could have happened,” said the German coach.

He added: “At home we have to control the game better and have more possession. It is our mentality and the mentality of some players to push forward and attack, but sometimes it is necessary to slow the rhythm of the game.”

Flick highlighted the role of Rodri, saying the midfielder had been brought in to help Barcelona manage difficult periods during matches. However, he stressed that the player still needed time to adapt after only being with the club for a few days.

“He is here to control the game in certain moments, and he has to improve because he has only been with us for a few days. We have to impose more control because the opponent is very strong and has many players who are good at exploiting spaces, and they are also excellent at set-pieces,” said Flick.

The manager said the result mattered more than the number of goals scored, while acknowledging that Barcelona’s playing style demands improvements in their pressing and recovery.

“The most important thing is to get the three points, and we have started the season well. We played the first half excellently against Rayo Vallecano and reacted well after the first goal. We have to improve in some phases, because our style requires us to win the ball back, and recovery is easier when we have the ball,” he said.

Flick was also pleased with Raphinha’s performance. The Brazil forward wore the captain’s armband and impressed as Barcelona secured a convincing win.

“Of course I expected this performance from him. He is a world-class player and I always want him in my team. Wearing the captain’s armband is good for him,” said Flick.

“Many things happened today that made me happy. Some players have arrived recently and are performing at a high level, and the team spirit is excellent. We have to improve in some situations and we will do that.”

Lamine Yamal was another player to earn praise, with Flick impressed by the teenager’s desire to continue developing.

“I think he always wants to improve, and he can do that. I am very happy with him. His way of playing is absolutely amazing and he is producing extraordinary performances,” said Flick.

Flick also singled out Gordon, who provided two assists and added pace to an attack that included Karim, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.

“He is very fast and has good control of the ball, and today he provided two assists. Having him with Karim, Raphinha and Lamine gives us a lot of speed, and I am very happy with what he is offering,” said Flick.