Barcelona continued their good start to the 2025-26 season with an impressive comeback victory over Real Oviedo on Thursday. The Catalans had trailed 1-0 at half time, but goals from Eric Garcia, Robert Lewandowski and Ronald Araujo ensured that they would be heading home with the three points.
As per Diario AS, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick reflected on the match, as he also spoke glowingly on Araujo’s performance.
“It wasn’t an easy game because Oviedo make good transitions, but we defended well. I’m also happy with the fact that he scored because I think it’s a step for his confidence, for him to believe in himself more.
“Araújo has shown that he is doing better than last season, but it is normal. Iñigo and Cubarsí played many games together and knew what had to be done. Now we are trying different pairs of central defenders, and being able to choose is good.
Flick also spoke on Frenkie de Jong, who was a standout performer for Barcelona during his second half cameo.
“He is very important, just like Pedri. In the second half we had more control and more rhythm of the game. That has made the match more difficult for Oviedo.”
Flick defends Joan Garcia after error leading to Oviedo goal
Joan Garcia was at fault for Oviedo’s goal in the first half, although Flick refused to point any fingers at his goalkeeper, whose resilience he has impressed by.
“It was a mistake. It’s football. It’s a consequence of the way we play. He’s a fantastic goalkeeper and then he’s rebuilt himself (during the rest of the match).”
Raphinha was substituted early in the second half, which surprised many at the time. But as it turns out, he was struggling with an injury, as Flick confirmed to the media.
“Raphinha felt something in his leg and we had to substitute him.”
