Hansi Flick’s in-game management and reactions at Barcelona need to be talked about more. The German has a fantastic ability to read the flow of the match. He makes decisive substitutions that have turned potential defeats into thrilling wins. Here’s why this topic deserves closer examination:
Flick’s Brilliant Substitutions Turned the Tide Against Benfica & Atletico
Flick has been a true savior for the Catalans this season, and another one of his traits has been his in-game management. In the thrilling comeback against Benfica, for instance, Barca’s defense was shaky. The Blaugrana trailed 4-2 and were lost for ideas. And then Flick decided to bring on Torres and Garcia in minute 74. Everything changed entirely as Eric Garcia equalized after Lewandowski’s penalty, and then Ferran also proved clutch as he assisted Raphinha for the winner.
Similarly, in the must-win clash against Atletico last week, Flick’s in-game decisions were once again decisive. After a late first-half goal, Atletico completely parked the bus in the second half. Flick once again turned to Ferran and Garcia. The result? Another equalizer by Ferran, and the Catalans won the match in style. These calculated decisions and game readings have been pivotal for Barca.
The Flick Effect: These Barcelona Comebacks Are No Coincidence
Flick’s pre-match plans have nicely worked for Barcelona, but his during the game management is on another level. And this is by no means a coincidence. This is because Flick adapts, identifies weaknesses and makes necessary changes. Against Benfica and Atletico, Barca looked disjointed and vulnerable but Flick’s changes turned the tide.
Those moves made game changing results and this shows these comebacks were no accidents. Flick made those decisions through his analytical reasoning and quick witted in-game decisions.
Need a Comeback? Sub Ferran and Garcia in
Ferran Torres and Eric Garcia have emerged as Flick’s go-to subs this season. Their contributions in critical moments have been absolutely heroic. Garcia scored a crucial goal against Benfica, and Ferran’s last-minute assist was decisive. Similarly, Ferran’s phenomenal off-the-bench brace and Garcia’s pivot role won another game against Atletico.
Not only Flick’s game reading but also the duo of Ferran and Garcia deserve credit. Ferran Torres, especially, deserves credit for his fantastic substitution record this season. The shark has eight goals coming off the bench this season, and that’s truly phenomenal.