Hansi Flick wants Barcelona to be “100% focused” on their clash with Leganes and not be distracted by the visit of in-form Atletico Madrid next weekend.
The Blaugrana have stumbled in recent weeks, winning just one of their last five home games as they saw their lead at the top of LaLiga shrink to just two points.
Flick's side will look to get back on track against another side with just one win from five league matches in 17th-placed Leganes.
Barcelona close 2024 next weekend with a blockbuster clash against Atletico, who have won each of their last 10 games in all competitions.
But Flick has called for concentration from his side, who may have lost top spot if second-placed Real Madrid beat Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
“Leganes does [on Sunday] and we don't think beyond that,” Flick told reporters during his pre-match press conference.
“You have to make decisions with the players. I told the team that everything depends on us, on whether we play with 100% concentration.”
“All teams are looking for our weakness and will fight to find it. I want us to be 100% focused, with respect for the opponent, but we have to play our game with our style.”
Barcelona have struggled with several injuries this season and have recently welcomed the likes of Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres.
And Flick revealed that defender Ronald Araujo could make his first appearance of the season against Leganes after being an unused substitute for the midweek Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.
“What I have in mind is that he will play the first minutes of the season. I'm not sure if he will be in the starting XI,” added Flick, who will serve the first of his two-match touchline ban following his suspension. red card against Real Betis last weekend.
“Maybe he is in the 11, but if he is not, he will play later. He is ready. After an injury, it is normal that it takes a while to reach the highest level. We are finding that little by little great.” [players] will be back.”
Good morning, Mr. Flick. pic.twitter.com/5XePobC535
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 14, 2024
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