🚨🎙️ Hansi Flick on why Rodri was benched against PSG:
Reporter: Many fans are worried and confused about why Rodri was benched against PSG. Can you explain that decision?
Hansi Flick: “Rodri has played a lot of games since he joined us, and honestly, the match against Real Betis drained him a lot. We cannot risk starting him against a PSG side where, if you want to compete, you must be ready to run. The intensity of playing against PSG requires players who are physically fit and ready to give everything on the pitch.
“Of course, I know how much our fans wanted us to win that game, and we wanted it just as much. But there is more to managing a team than simply choosing the strongest possible lineup for every match. Sometimes, you have to look at the bigger picture and make decisions based on what is most important for the team.
“We have El Clásico this weekend, and we have the opportunity to go nine points clear of our biggest rivals. That is something we cannot afford to overlook. The Champions League is still in its early stages, and although losing to PSG is disappointing, we have time to learn from our mistakes and correct them.
“Winning El Clásico would put us in a very strong position in the league and give us more breathing room to focus on the Champions League. We need to arrive at that game in the best possible shape, and that means being smart with our players.
“Rodri is an important player for us, but we cannot gamble with his availability when we know how demanding these games are. I understand the frustration, but my responsibility is to manage this team properly, not just for one match, but for the entire season.”
@Ju1ianZ@Neuroptima At first I thought it was bs but after trying it. My awareness had never been better, and my mind been so clear and I've been more reactive.