It isn't just about growth and increased confidence as a group. On an individual level, we can see how much the confidence of players like Raphinha and Inaki Pena has increased since Flick's arrival.

Just 2-3 years ago, if Barca had been 2 goals down in the 78th minute or had been reduced to 10 men after just 22 minutes, I doubt we would have been able to get the results that we did.

Even if Valverde is deployed in the midfield, his long shots could be very beneficial against Atletico's low-block. With the absence of Ceballos, his role in progressing the ball forward will be a lot more important.

So basically, this isn't something to create a fuss about–R9 was simply biased in the interview and was giving recognition to the people of his country and continent.

Yes, AFCON and the Asia Cup may not be as well-organized as Copa América or the Euros, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that the people of Africa and Asia dream of their nations winning these trophies. For me, that is enough for them to be considered major tournaments.

Jamie Carragher mentioned that Egypt cannot win the World Cup. Well, Jamie, has England won the World Cup in recent years? Has it even been as dominant as it should be? And did Italy qualify for the World Cups before and after winning the Euros?

The problem with AFCON and the Asia Cup is the media coverage around them. The media doesn’t like discussing the games; instead, they repeatedly argue about why the games are played mid-season—despite knowing that the weather conditions don’t allow them to take place in June.

AFCON and the Asia Cup are major trophies just like the Euros and Copa America. Africans and Asians look forward to the tournament just as much as Europeans and South Americans look forward to the Euros and Copa America.

Mbappé at the Lusail Stadium on December 18th—an event that guarantees memories.

It says "Left-wing/striker" mate

Although, I do get why Barca wants to sign him:

–6 months loan shouldn't be expensive
–Can operate as a wide wingers on the left
–Might have the desire to succeed after everything that has happened in the past few months.