
Thiago Alcantara can't hide his admiration for Barça's new generation after 4 to 3 Clásico win
Thiago Alcantara
, a former
Barcelona
midfielder, has voiced his appreciation of the amazing performance of the Catalan club after their thrilling 4-3 victory over
Real Madrid
during the Sunday
El Clasico
. The Spanish international who was on Hansi Flick's coaching team for a brief period of time earlier this season had nothing but praise for the team's magnificent performance that has put Barcelona in a strong position for the
La Liga
title.
Barcelona youngsters showcase extraordinary talent
Speaking at the star-studded People in Red Gala in Barcelona, Thiago Alcantara was full of praise for the great exhibitions by Barcelona's budding stars, especially Lamine Yamal, who is 17 years old. In talking about the teenage forward, Thiago Alcantara stressed the need to develop him, without placing limits on him. 'Let him be enjoying himself,' he said. 'We don't have to cap him, so that he can keep on improving. We have to provide him with the tools to be consistent in the amazing thing that he is.
The former Bayern Munich and Barcelona midfielder also praised the composure and maturity displayed by young defenders Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia, who were pretty impressive in their 'incredible' performances at their young ages.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Barcelona's magical season continues under Flick's guidance
Thiago Alcantara pointed out that tactical genius is not the only reason why Barcelona is attractive. 'It is seen from a more tactical or technical perspective by us who have been there,' he explained. Today, we just cannot avoid mentioning the magic that the kids, the coaching staff, and the club make for you as a sports fan… The magic of Barça goes beyond what is in football'.
The win against Real Madrid is another milestone in the remarkable turnaround season that Barcelona has been having under Hansi Flick. Having gone trophy-less during last season, the Blaugranes have already won the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey this season, as they are now on the verge of winning the La Liga title. Fans will be able to watch Barcelona's next league match against Athletic Club Bilbao on 25th May on La Liga TV.
Also Read:
Winning trophies, delighting fans a priority, says Mohun Bagan dev team coach Deggie Cardozo
The triumph in El Clásico has reinvigorated Barcelona's passionate fanbase, with Thiago Alcantara's comments reflecting the widespread belief that this talented squad is restoring the club's illustrious reputation. Also, fans can catch the next performance when Barcelona plays arch-rivals Real Madrid in a must-win La Liga fixture on May 15, 2025, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium; the game is broadcast live on ESPN+ and LaLiga TV at 3:30 PM ET.
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