Pau Victor says Hansi Flick’s demanding training sessions at Barcelona were so intense that he sometimes finished them feeling dizzy.
The Sporting Braga forward and former Barcelona player described the physical demands imposed by Flick during an interview with the “Que T’hi Jugues” programme on Cadena SER, insisting that the German manager’s reputation for strictness is fully justified.
“There are videos showing Gavi and me lying on the ground with our legs in the air,” Victor said. “I finished several training sessions feeling dizzy.”
Although Victor was given limited playing time by Flick during the 2024-2025 season, he said his former manager taught him important lessons about the standards expected of a professional footballer.
“He taught me a lot about the discipline required from a player and about the effort that is non-negotiable,” Victor said.
The 24-year-old also praised former team-mate Gerard Martin, who is approaching his 100th appearance for Barcelona’s first team.
“It is incredible what he is achieving,” Victor said. “I did not expect it, but he completely deserves it.”
Victor believes Martin represents the type of player who earns Flick’s trust, highlighting his commitment away from match days as well as his work on the pitch.
“He is a hard-working player who stays in the gym after training and asks for extra exercises and video sessions,” he said.
Victor praises Raphinha’s development
Asked about Barcelona’s performances this season, Victor singled out Raphinha for particular praise.
“Raphinha is amazing,” he said. “He was like that when I was at the club, but the quality he has is his ability to reinvent himself and defend. Especially defending and pressing.”
Victor is now in his second season with Sporting Braga, where he wears the number 10 shirt.
During his first campaign in Portugal, he scored 17 goals and provided six assists in more than 3500 minutes. Those figures helped establish him as a regular starter in the Portuguese league.
He has also made a strong start to the current season, scoring five goals in 12 matches.
Victor said he was enjoying both his football and his surroundings in Portugal.
“I am very happy with the team and the city,” he said, while also praising Sporting Braga’s facilities as “really very good”.
Despite the limited opportunities he received under Flick at Barcelona, Victor’s comments underline the lasting influence of the German coach’s methods. He also believes the progress of Martin reflects the qualities Flick values most: discipline, additional work and a willingness to contribute defensively.