Flick hails ‘magician’ Pedri as Barcelona maintain perfect Camp Nou start

Hans-Dieter Flick praised Pedri after Barcelona’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao, describing the Spain midfielder as a “magician” whose ability should never be questioned.

Barcelona moved to six points at the top of La Liga with victory in the rearranged match from the opening round of the season. Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scored the goals as Flick’s side secured their second successive league win without conceding.

Speaking to Spanish broadcaster DAZN, Flick said: “No one can question what the magician can do. Pedri is the magician, and you can never question him, because he was amazing last season and the season before, and he will be great again this season.”

Pedri has been praised by the Barcelona manager for his influence in midfield, with Flick insisting the 22-year-old’s performances over recent seasons provide sufficient evidence of his quality.

Flick also discussed Raphinha’s potential role in attack and suggested the Brazil international could be used in more than one position during the campaign.

“We do not know whether Raphinha will be our number nine this season, but the important thing is that he is ready,” said Flick. “With his vitality and intensity, he is perfect for us.”

Raphinha scored Barcelona’s second goal against Athletic Bilbao, while Fermin Lopez opened the scoring. Both players have now scored three goals each for Barcelona in two La Liga matches at the start of the new season.

Flick was pleased with the clean sheet but said his players must continue to improve their control of matches.

“Keeping a clean sheet is important, but scoring goals is important too,” he said. “We had many chances and I am happy with the team’s performance. We need to learn how to keep the ball.”

The victory also means Flick has become only the second Barcelona manager to win his first 15 La Liga matches at Camp Nou.

The German has matched a record previously achieved only by Helenio Herrera, who won his opening 15 league games at the stadium in 1959.

Flick also singled out Xavi Espart for praise after the player was deployed on the left wing.

“Xavi Espart is a player with great technical ability. He is top level,” said Flick. “I was very surprised by his performance on the left wing.”

Barcelona’s result extended their perfect start to the league season and gave Flick another landmark at the club, while the team’s second clean sheet in two matches provided further encouragement alongside the goals from Raphinha and Fermin Lopez.