Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has backed his team to come back stronger next season following their agonising Champions League semi-final exit at the hands of Inter Milan. The tie, which ended 7-6 on aggregate after two thrilling encounters, dashed Barca's hopes of a historic quadruple in Flick's debut season.
Despite the painful nature of the defeat, Flick remained upbeat during his post-match press conference, expressing pride in his squads effort.
Im proud of my team. We gave it everything, said the German coach. Sometimes in football, these things happen. We have to accept it and go again. Winning the Champions League remains one of our main objectives. We'll be back.
Barcelona must now refocus as they prepare for a crucial La Liga clash against Real Madrid on Sunday. The Catalan side currently hold a four-point lead over their fierce rivals at the top of the table and are on course for a domestic treble, having already secured the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey.
Looking ahead to the showdown in Madrid, Flick emphasised his teams resolve.