The Catalans have officially advanced to the UCL quarterfinals stage and joined seven other elite teams in the hunt for European glory. But Hansi Flick’s squad holds a significant edge over the other teams. It’s an edge that comes from three major reasons, making Barca the most complete team in the tournament.
Barca has Insanely Good Ball Progressors
Players who can play themselves out of tricky situations and carry the ball forward really make a difference. The Blaugrana have been blessed with some fantastic ball progressors that progress the ball and disrupt the opponent’s formation. Alex Balde, who has been a game-changer for Barca, is one of the names. The LB consistently drives the ball forward and forces opponents to leave their spots and shape.
Frenkie de Jong has been another master of progression. The Dutchman has been a phenomenal escaper of the press and advances the ball to facilitate buildups. This helps to dismantle the opponent team’s press, move the ball forward, and create more chances.
World-Class Talent in Every Position
It is important that a team does not rely on only some players to do the job, especially if you want to win the UCL. Barca, fortunately, has the best players in the world in every position this season. In attack, the trident of Lewandowski, Yamal and Raphinha has been nothing short of sensational. They have scored the most goals in Europe and are doing their job better than any attack this season. The midfield has a treasure of talent. Pedri, the magician; Olmo, the creative number 10; and Casado/de Jong, the stabilizers. Even a player of Gavi’s calibre has struggled for minutes due to intense competition.
The defence is equally impressive. The center-back duo of Cubarsi and Inigo has been more than just defenders. Araujo has brought character and physicality to the defence. The full-backs Kounde and Balde are arguably the best in the world at their spots. The goalkeeping department is also well covered, as Szczesny’s shot-stopping has been on full display. All in all, the team is complete and has all kinds of firing options.
A Proven Coach Who has Instilled a Desire to Win
Every talented team is incomplete without a great coach. This talented Catalan side has been completed with Hansi Flick. Since he took charge, he has instilled a winning mentality in players and implemented match-winning tactics.
The players play and press with so much intensity, display a desire to win in all situations and execute game plans flawlessly. The team has used these attributes to dismantle some of Europe’s strongest teams. This shows Flick ball’s ability to get the best out of this squad, and this gives Barcelona another edge over other teams.
Barca’s combination of world-class talent, elite ball progressors, and a winning mentality under Flick makes them the most complete squad in the UEFA Champions League. The stage is set as the quarter-finals approach in April. The Blaugrana are confident of winning the title, as their advantage over other teams is quite evident.