Hansi Flick calls on Barcelona to turn squad quality into a trophy-winning season

Hansi Flick says Barcelona are ready to fight for every trophy in the new campaign, with the German manager confident his squad possesses the quality required to compete at the highest level.

Flick will lead Barcelona against Egyptian club Al Ahly on Wednesday at Spotify Camp Nou in the Joan Gamper Trophy, their final friendly before the start of the season.

Addressing supporters ahead of the match, Flick thanked them for their backing during the previous campaign and welcomed the club’s new players and members of the coaching staff.

“I would like to begin by thanking you for your support last season, and by welcoming our new players and members of the coaching staff. We are happy to have you with us,” he said.

Flick also spoke emotionally about the support he received from the Barcelona community after the death of his father in May.

“I have something emotional to say. In May last year, when I lost my father, I felt extraordinary support and love from everyone in the Barcelona family. For me and my family, that was something unbelievable,” he added.

Barcelona begin their competitive campaign away to Elche on Sunday, when they open their La Liga title defence.

Flick credited sporting director Deco, president Joan Laporta and everyone involved at the club for helping to assemble what he described as a strong squad.

“We will start the new season next Sunday in Elche. I believe we have a great team with a lot of quality, and that is thanks to Deco, the president, and everyone who has played a part in making it happen,” said Flick.

The former Germany and Bayern Munich manager said the team would need to work consistently if they were to challenge across all competitions.

“We are ready to work hard, day after day, to fight for every title. For that, we need all of you. We need your support, your energy and your passion. Long live Barcelona, and long live Catalonia,” he said.

Barcelona are aiming to win La Liga for a third successive season. They will also seek to end a long wait for another UEFA Champions League triumph, having last lifted the trophy in 2015.

The Joan Gamper Trophy fixture with Al Ahly gives Flick another opportunity to assess his players before the competitive action begins. The match at Spotify Camp Nou will also allow Barcelona supporters to see the squad and new additions before Sunday’s league trip to Elche.

Flick’s message places particular emphasis on the relationship between the team and its supporters, with Barcelona preparing for a season in which they will compete for domestic honours while attempting to return to the top of European football.