Flick urges Anthony Gordon to be more selfish as Jules Kounde return is delayed

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick says Anthony Gordon must show greater selfishness in one-on-one situations, while warning that Jules Kounde’s return from injury is taking longer than expected.

Barcelona face Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Sunday, with Flick also confirming that Farinas is ready to deputise at right-back despite having never played in the position before.

Discussing Gordon’s recent performances, Flick told Spanish newspaper AS: “He gives us a lot with the ball. He keeps hold of it, helps us retain possession and does not make easy mistakes. In the final third, he can be a little more selfish in one-on-one situations.

“But he has been very good in the last few matches and has raised his level. I am pleased with that.”

Flick said the club had expected Kounde to recover sooner, but stressed that Barcelona would not rush the France international back into action.

“We expected him to return more quickly, but we have to take care of him,” said the German coach. “We need to monitor his progress day by day. It is taking a little longer, and we hope to see him after the international break.”

The Barcelona boss also explained how Farinas had adapted to the right-back role and backed the youngster to start against Atletico Madrid.

“He had never played in this position before, but he is a very good player physically, tactically and technically,” Flick said. “It is incredible how La Masia develops players. On the right-hand side, alongside Lamine Yamal, he is doing a very good job.”

Flick believes Farinas has already reached the required level to cope with Sunday’s challenge, having impressed in Barcelona’s previous outing against Aston Villa.

“He is at a level that makes him capable of playing a match like tomorrow’s,” he added. “Against Aston Villa, he produced an excellent performance, and he is ready for tomorrow’s match.”