Flick: This is what Paris Saint-Germain proved, and we must learn from the defeat

Hans Flick, the head coach of FC Barcelona, acknowledged Paris Saint-Germain's superiority after his team's 4-2 loss in the third round of the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, while also confirming that the defeat represents an opportunity to learn and correct mistakes before facing Real Madrid in the Clasico.

In his post-match comments, Flick said: "It was a great match from both teams, Paris Saint-Germain proved to be a better team than us. We lost, but we learned. Mistakes happen, and what we showed in the past weeks was great. Today's match was not easy, as the players ran a lot and tried to play."

"The recovery process after the previous match was not the best, but that is not an excuse; we have to learn. We are in October, and titles are not decided in October; the UEFA Champions League is decided in June."

Regarding Barcelona's decline in the second half, the German coach explained: "Paris Saint-Germain have great quality in transitions, and we tried to defend, but we were not at our best physically during the last 15 minutes. This is not an excuse; we need to review what happened after the previous match, as we did not prepare for the confrontation in the best way, and analyze the matter in order to deliver a better performance in the future."

Flick addressed Dani Olmo's injury, saying: "We will see what he is suffering from, he took a hit and is feeling pain, and he is very frustrated. We do not know the extent of the injury yet, and we will see what happens."

Chavi Espert praised the player, adding: "He had a wonderful match and scored a goal; the level he is playing at is amazing. He trained with us last season, then participated in the pre-season for the new season and delivered an exceptional performance. He has the quality, and he proved that against Paris Saint-Germain, and he did a great job."

Regarding the preparations for the Clasico, FC Barcelona's coach confirmed the necessity of making changes, stating: "We need to make changes, Erik and Jules Koundé are injured, the full-backs had a good match, and we need to look at the positive aspects, as they are there."

Speaking about conceding four goals, Flick said: "I think Paris Saint-Germain also scored a lot of goals against Manchester City, the team's performance dropped in the last ten minutes, and we conceded the fourth goal, but I saw very good things, we have potential, and I'm not pessimistic, it was a good experience, and we need to perform better."

The coach praised goalkeeper Juan García, emphasizing the need to capitalize on opportunities and play with more calmness, while also monitoring the distances between players. He concluded by explaining the reason for resting Rodri: "He got a rest because we will face Real Madrid on Sunday. He played with the national team and then with us. We had a very good first half, and Marc Bernal was outstanding; he was a good option. Rodri will be in good physical condition on Sunday."