Barcelona ran riot against Valencia as they defeated their domestic rivals 6-0 in La Liga on Sunday. Coach Hansi Flick praised the team's performance, highlighting winger Roony Bardghji's mentality as he dropped Raphinha and gave the Swedish winger a start ahead of Raphinha, who was reportedly dropped as a disciplinary measure after arriving late for a pre-match activation session.
Bardghji makes his La Liga debut with Barcelona
Bardghji made his competitive debut in Barcelona's clash against Valencia. The 19-year-old put in a commendable display, coming very close to scoring with a curling shot that was saved by Valencia goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala. The Swede was substituted in the second half and was replaced by Raphinha, who came in and scored two goals.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportCoach Hansi Flick lauds the teenager's performance
Flick was impressed by Bardghji's performance as he stressed on the Swede's mentality in a post-match interview.
"Roony had a great training session, the mentality, as I said, is perfect." He further underscored the team's attitude, stating: "Only eleven players are playing, and everyone wants to play; the attitude is perfect."
Raphinha dropped after turning up late
Flick is known to maintain a strict policy regarding punctuality and discipline. He has previously taken disciplinary measures, penalising other players such as Jules Kounde and Inaki Pena. Raphinha was expected to make the starting XI against Valencia but was dropped after he arrived late for the final training session. As a result, the winger was benched and Bardghji was handed his debut. Raphinha, though, is expected to start in their Champions League opener.
GettyBarcelona to kick-off their Champions League campaign
Barcelona will kick off their Champions League campaign against Newcastle. The Spanish side will visit St. James' Park on September 19, but may be without star man Lamine Yamal due to injury. Frenkie De Jong has been training separately, and Flick hopes to start him in the upcoming game. Gavi will miss the game amid fears he may require surgery.
