“I don't know if Inaki Pena will stay, but he deserved to be a starter”

FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said after the 3-0 win at San Mames against Athletic on the last day of the season that “it was perfect to end the season like this”.

“We played very well against one of the best teams in the league and against a great atmosphere. I loved what I saw, it was great. After so many celebrations to finish like this is perfect,” stressed the German coach in his assessment of the match.

On the other hand, Flick commented on Inaki Pena's start, saying that the goalkeeper was “training at a high level and deserved it”. “He was not happy with the decision I made in goal. The truth is that he gives everything in training, he is a very good professional and deserved to be a starter. He played a fantastic game, keeping a clean sheet, and I am very happy for him,” he said without wanting to assess the possible signing of Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, because he does not want to talk about players from other teams.

The German coach was also questioned about the arrival of Xabi Alonso on the Madrid bench and assured that he is “very happy to see him” in the Spanish league. “I spoke to him several times when he was at Bayer Leverkusen. I like his philosophy and his success in Germany is very positive with a team that has played at a very high level and players who have improved with him,” he explained.

Finally, the German coach highlighted the careers of two players like Modric, who played his last game for Madrid on Saturday, and De Marcos, who he gave a hug to when he was substituted at San Mames in his last game as a professional.

“It's fantastic that they are both playing at this level at the age they are. That says a lot about their good mentality, their attitude and professionalism. They have both given a lot to football and I wish them good luck in the future,” concluded the Barcelona coach.