'Brilliant in training!' - Hansi Flick backs forgotten Barcelona ace to get back to his best after first appearance for Catalan giants in 15 months

The 21-year-old came off the bench late on as Barca lost 2-1 to Monaco in their opening Champions League game of the season, having been reduced to 10 men when Eric Garcia was sent off just 10 minutes into the contest.

Fati spent last season on loan at Brighton, where he made 27 appearances, but has been struggling with an injury since his return. His 88-minute introduction on Thursday was his first game for the Spanish side since late-August 2023, and Flick has spoken of his admiration for the winger.

"I have congratulated Ansu on his return. I have a lot of appreciation for him and he is going to do very well," he said. "I have spoken to him and he sees himself more in the left wing position but he has great qualities to play in the centre as well. I saw him very different in July and brilliant in training. Now he needs time and we have to look after him.”

The 10-time Spain international will hope to get a second appearance of the season under his belt on Sunday when the Catalan club, who sit top of La Liga, come up against Villarreal.