The keys of Flick to revive a battered Barça

Perhaps because last season set the bar very high, everything seems to cost more now. The start of Flick´s first season was dreamlike: perfectly coordinated high pressing, the famous offside line working like a machine, and convincing victories. That was a movie-like start. Although there were ups and downs, the overall balance was outstanding, well above expectations when his arrival was announced in the summer. The problem lies in the fact that that level was so high that any current stumble is perceived as a setback. However, perhaps now the enormous merit of what Flick achieved with a group of inexperienced young players to whom he gave their big opportunity is more appreciated. Rivals, aware of the aggressive style of the German coach, have learned how to counter it, and that high line that was once their strength now seems more like a vulnerability.

A defense that is no longer so firm

The Barça concedes more chances than last season. That extreme risk always involved plays at the limit, with one-on-one duels against the goalkeeper, but before the balance was positive. Now, Flick has been working for weeks to correct it. It is not an easy task, and although he does not give up his philosophy, it is evident that something is not functioning as it should. However, the problem is not solely tactical. Injuries are causing a lot of damage. In the Clásico, Barça arrived with very important absences, more than their rival, and recovering players will be key to competing at the highest level again. A glance at the bench in the Bernabéu says it all: most were young players with little experience in the First Division. Flick had hardly any options for a spark. That is why recovering players and expanding the rotation is essential for the team to take flight.

Raphinha, an absence that is felt too much

Joan García, Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, and Raphinha. Two of the three starting forwards are out of action. The goalkeeper from Sallent, a key signing of the summer, is also injured. And Olmo, a decisive piece last season, lacks continuity. Without them, Barça loses energy and impact. But that cannot be an excuse: the team still has enough resources to offer good football and authority on the field. Another concerning aspect is the state of Lamine Yamal. In the Clásico, he was seen far from his best level, lacking that characteristic spark and imbalance. His pubalgia prevents him from performing at 100%. It is a serious issue. If he needs a month to fully recover, he must do so. The fundamental thing is that he heals completely. The priority is for the young talent from Rocafonda to arrive in full condition starting in January.

Lamine´s pubalgia and the need for adjustments

With Lamine healthy and the injured players back, the perspective will change. But it will also be necessary to adjust pieces. Some players are not going through their best moment: Cubarsí shows less reliability (something normal at 18 years old), Balde has lost depth, Koundé is far from his previous version, and the absence of Iñigo Martínez is felt more than expected. Still, this is a moment to build and not lament. Flick is aware that he needs to make tweaks, and now, with the upcoming commitments against Elche, Bruges, and Celta, a new opportunity arises to reorganize ideas before the break. The situation is far from dramatic. In LaLiga, the five-point deficit is surmountable: there is still much to play. And in Champions League, the outlook is positive. However, it must be accepted that, under current conditions, it will be difficult to reach the level of excellence shown a few months ago.