Hansi Flick saluted a “crucial” response by Barcelona after they put their current struggles behind them with victory over Athletic Bilbao within the Supercopa de Espana semi-finals.

The Blaugrana had topped the LaLiga desk following a superb begin to the season.

Nevertheless, a run of only one win in seven league video games – together with back-to-back defeats in opposition to Leganes and Atletico Madrid – noticed them give up prime spot.

Nonetheless, they’ve responded effectively after the mid-season break, placing six objectives previous Barbastro and Bilbao with out reply, beating the latter 2-0 in Jeddah on Wednesday.

“I believe we deserved it. At instances, we didn’t dominate as standard, however I’m pleased,” he instructed reporters. “The target was to succeed in the ultimate, and we’re pleased to have saved a clear sheet.

“We’re a younger group, and now we have to study loads. The model, the way in which we play, is what’s necessary.

“We misplaced in opposition to Atletico [2-1], and it wasn’t fairly. However we performed a terrific recreation and, after the break, we beat Barbastro and Athletic with clear sheets, and that’s crucial.”

Gavi and Lamine Yamal have been heading in the right direction for Flick’s aspect, the latter marking his return from damage with a tremendous strike within the second half.

“It’s true that we suffered, particularly on the finish of the primary half, however we knew how one can play very effectively and really pleased,” Yamal stated. “So long as the coach provides me the choice, I’m pleased to have the ability to assist the group.”

“I used to be fortunate sufficient to attain the objective and provides the help [for Yamal’s goal],” Gavi added. “However in the long run, what issues is that we’re within the remaining, and now we have to win it.”

Partido muy serio, equipo. Tenemos el primer título a tiro One step away from the primary title. See you on Sunday! @FCBarcelona #SupercopaDeEspana pic.twitter.com/k6WGUFzFwu

— Pedri González (@Pedri) January 8, 2025