Olmo’s Triumphant Camp Nou Comeback
In a highly anticipated Catalan derby clash, Barcelona’s €60 million summer signing Dani Olmo marked his return to the starting lineup in spectacular fashion. The Spanish international, who had been sidelined for a month due to injury, netted a brilliant brace to propel the Blaugrana to a resounding 3-1 victory over crosstown rivals Espanyol at the Olympic Stadium.
Olmo’s first start since September proved to be a memorable one, as he showcased his goal-scoring prowess and quickly reminded Barça fans of his immense talent. Speaking to reporters after the match, a delighted Olmo expressed his joy at being back on the pitch and contributing to the team’s success.
“I feel good. I was really looking forward to returning and being able to help the team on the pitch. I’m back, enjoying it, playing, winning … and I want more.”
– Dani Olmo, Barcelona forward
A Lethal Attacking Force
Olmo’s brace, combined with a goal from Brazilian winger Raphinha, highlighted the depth and diversity of Barcelona’s attacking options this season. The Catalan giants have now scored an impressive 40 goals in LaLiga, with four players – Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Olmo – all contributing at least five goals each.
This wealth of goal-scoring talent has been a key factor in Barcelona’s dominant start to the campaign, which sees them sitting comfortably atop the LaLiga table with a nine-point lead after just 11 games. As Olmo pointed out, the team’s ability to create chances and find the back of the net from various positions makes them a formidable force.
“We are a team with a lot of goals in it. Both the forwards and the midfielders that get forward can contribute in that regard. We can play direct and we create a lot of chances.”
– Dani Olmo
Flick’s Praise and Areas for Improvement
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick was quick to praise Olmo’s impact on the match, highlighting his goal-scoring ability as a crucial factor in securing the derby win. However, Flick also acknowledged that there is still room for improvement, particularly in maintaining control and concentration throughout the 90 minutes.
“He knows how to score goals, this was for us very important today. We are very happy Dani is back. Maybe he is not 100% still, but he’s back and was able to start. This is also why we won this match.”
– Hansi Flick, Barcelona head coach
Despite the convincing scoreline, Barcelona’s performance did dip in the second half, allowing Espanyol to pull back a late consolation goal through Javi Puado. Flick emphasized the need for his team to maintain their focus and intensity throughout the entire match, especially with a crucial Champions League fixture against Red Star Belgrade on the horizon.
“I’m not happy of course for the second half, but I say to the team sometimes it happens. We lost the concentration, the tension. We made a lot of unforced errors. But it happens sometimes. Until now, the team made a good season with unbelievable performances.”
– Hansi Flick
A Somber Moment Amidst Celebration
The jubilation of Barcelona’s derby victory was tempered by the tragic events that have unfolded in eastern Spain this week. Prior to kickoff, a minute’s silence was observed in memory of the more than 200 lives lost due to the devastating floods that have ravaged the region, particularly in the Valencia area.
Injured Barcelona forward Ferran Torres, who hails from the Valencia region, took to Instagram to reveal that he did not attend the derby due to the emotional toll of the past week’s events. Flick expressed his understanding and support for Torres’ decision, emphasizing that there are times when matters off the pitch take precedence over football.
“I totally understand that. It was normal, when [Torres] asked this, I said OK, of course. In this moment, there are much more important things than football and he chose that. It’s normal.”
– Hansi Flick
Olmo echoed his coach’s sentiments, suggesting that perhaps the matches should not have been played this weekend in light of the tragedy. He extended his support to those affected and encouraged people to come together and help in any way they can.
“Maybe the games shouldn’t have been played [this weekend]. I am sending all my support to those affected by [the floods] and encourage people to collaborate and help however they can.”
– Dani Olmo
Looking Ahead: Maintaining Momentum
As Barcelona basks in the glow of their Catalan derby triumph and Olmo’s sensational return, the focus now shifts to maintaining their momentum both domestically and in Europe. With a nine-point lead in LaLiga and a crucial Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade on the horizon, the Blaugrana will need to heed Flick’s words and strive for consistency and concentration in every outing.
The return of Olmo, coupled with the continued brilliance of Lewandowski, Raphinha, and rising star Yamal, gives Barcelona a wealth of attacking options as they navigate the challenges ahead. If they can maintain their goal-scoring form and shore up their second-half performances, the Catalan giants may well find themselves on course for a triumphant season both at home and abroad.
As the football world mourns the lives lost in the tragic floods, Barcelona’s victory serves as a reminder of the unifying power of the beautiful game. In times of adversity, the sport can bring people together, offering a glimmer of hope and a respite from the harsh realities of life. As Olmo and his teammates continue their pursuit of glory, they carry with them the support and well-wishes of a region in pain, determined to honor the memory of those lost through their performances on the pitch.
