Hansi Flick’s arrival at Barcelona is one of the biggest challenges the German took in his managerial career. Barcelona are currently in a rebuilding phase with poor financial status in football. One of the challenges Flick faces is the tactical test, shifting from a high press counter-attacking team to a possession-based philosophy. How will Flick adapt and overcome his Flick’s Biggest Tactical Test at Barcelona?
Adapting High-Intensity Pressing to a Possession-Based Team
Flick’s Bayern philosophy was based on the German traditional style of relentless pressing and quick transitions. However, Barcelona had roots in the Johan Cruyff possession-based football for years, this philosophy became quite outdated in modern football and Flick had to change it. Integrating high-pressing and direct football in Barcelona’s style will be key style.
📌Flick has transformed well, Barcelona players have mastered the high-pressing technique, pressing in a coordinated manner with specific pressing triggers. This has helped Barcelona to regain the possession quickly after losing it.
The Right Role for Wide Players
Flick’s system requires offensive full-backs and wingers who stretch the play. At Barcelona, he has Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé, who have played under a different tactical structure.
📌Development of Balde and Jules Koundé is quite impressive, Flick has made them a key part of Barcelona’s attack and defence. Both players did not have much-attacking role under Xavi but have significantly progressed under Flick’s system.
Midfield Structure
At Bayern, Flick’s midfield duo of Kimmich and Leon Goretzka provided energy, pressing, and quick transitions. At Barcelona, the midfielders have a more possession-based style, preferably controlling the game.
📌Pedri and De Jong have evolved in a more modern role, instead of passing the ball back to control the game, they are seen to take more risks with key balls through. Their pressing game has improved drastically and Flick has made them key.
Defensive Line
At Bayern, Flick’s team used a high defensive line near the halfway line of the pitch. It was used to minimise runs from the opposition which played them offside.
📌Barcelona’s defensive line has mastered this under Flick and has improved their defence with a high line. Martinez and Cubarsi have been key in this, they have played the most offsides this season.
Reviving Barcelona’s Attack
Bayern’s attack under Flick was direct and ruthless, with Robert Lewandowski scoring freely. At Barcelona, the attack is not that fluid and players are inconsistent.
📌Flick has transformed Barcelona’s attack with an elite trio of Raphinha, Lewandowski, and Yamal. This blend has been quite key for Barcelona in big games. They are consistent and have been scoring for fun. Flick has certainly passed this test as well.