After two successive defeats, FC Barcelona returned to winning ways in an emphatic manner, securing a 6-1 victory at home against Deportivo Alaves.

It was a dominant display from the Catalans, with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha both bagging a brace while Fermin Lopez and Anthony Gordon also chipped in with goals.

After the game, coach Hansi Flick was quite delighted with Barcelona’s performance on the night, as he talked about some key aspects of the game, including Yamal’s performance, especially after a painful Ballon d’Or snub.

Hansi Flick was delighted with the overall performance against a team that can be defensively stubborn.

“We played well and were very focused. We knew Alaves would defend well, but we dominated the first half at a high level and the result confirms it,” he said (h/t Diario SPORT).

Yamal, who scored twice before being withdrawn, drew a special mention, especially after the youngster was snubbed in the Ballon d’Or gala, as he finished third behind Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane.

“When you score two goals, it’s easier to get substituted. I spoke to him at halftime. He’s regained his confidence and had many one-on-one situations. He played a fantastic match,” he said.

Flick was equally complimentary of his captain, adding: “Lamine and Raphinha were fantastic. We reacted very well and we’re on the right track.”

De Jong at centre-back and a debutant shines

With his defence ravaged by injuries, Flick turned to an unlikely solution in Frenkie de Jong.

“We have many injured defenders and we don’t know when they’ll be back. I asked Frenkie if he could play centre-back and he said yes, that he wanted to help the team,” he said.

There was also high praise for academy product Brian Farinas, who seized his chance.

“I’m very happy with his progress. He’s played at a high level and connects very well with Lamine. He deserved these minutes because he trains very well and his attitude is outstanding. That’s exactly what I want from my players.”

A personal milestone for Flick

The rout coincided with Flick’s 100th win as Barcelona boss – a milestone he could have ideally secured against Real Madrid last weekend.

“It’s incredible. First we reached 100 matches and now 100 wins. It’s fantastic,” he said.

When asked to pick a favourite win among these 100, he reflected fondly on his first Clasico triumph.

“Perhaps that win in Madrid. Winning there in my first year was incredible and it brings back very good memories,” he said.

On the injury front, Flick remained cautious over Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde.

“We still don’t know who will be able to return. I hope to have at least one or two back. Christensen is very close to training with the team, but we don’t want to take any risks.”

And finally, Flick confirmed that Gavi’s absence was simply a precautionary measure due to the yellow card, ruling out any injury.

“He had a yellow card and we didn’t want to take any risks. It was a great opportunity for Bernal to play in that position, and it suited all of us,” he concluded.