Hansi Flick transformed FC Barcelona in less than 100 days

There was some consternation from Barcelona fans when club legend Xavi Hernandez was fired by the club earlier this year. Xavi's tenure at seen some success but had ultimately run its course. In his stead, Barça chose Hansi Flick, most recently the manager of Germany, to lead the Catalonian giants forward.

Flick's tactical nous was obvious from the get-go, with Barcelona looking a stronger side almost immediately under his guidance. But how did Flick transform Barcelona in such a short period of time?

Laporta has long admired Flick, even attempting to hire him in 2021. After Xavi Hernández was sacked in May 2024, the stars aligned, and Flick, now available after leaving Germany, was appointed head coach of FC Barcelona. According to ESPN, Laporta is reportedly "smitten" with Flick and his coaching style.

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In just 100 days, Flick has already made noticeable changes to Barça’s play. They are pressing more effectively, playing a higher defensive line, and maintaining intensity for 90 minutes. The team has started the 2024 season strong, with clear dominance on the pitch.

Unlike his predecessor Xavi, Flick keeps a low profile and avoids being consumed by media attention. His 'no-nonsense' approach allows him to focus entirely on the team, avoiding the typical distractions of the Barça hot seat, and keeping interactions within the club professional.

According to the Spanish publication Marca, one of Flick’s top priorities has been fitness. Barcelona struggled last season with late-game collapses, but Flick brought in new fitness coaches to improve stamina. This season, the team is showing better physical resilience, and players have noted the increased intensity in training.

Flick’s strength lies in delegation and his trust in his staff. He has surrounded himself with trusted assistants like Marcus Sorg and fitness experts like Julio Tous. This allows him to focus on tactical improvements while ensuring that fitness, discipline, and other key areas are handled effectively.

The German coach is adapting his ways rather fast. Flick has embraced Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy. He’s given significant playing time to young players, including starting three 17-year-olds early in the season. Laporta is pleased with Flick’s commitment to youth, which is central to the club's philosophy - the true FC Barcelona DNA.

Barcelona’s style under Flick is dynamic and aggressive, unlike Xavi's. They press high, recover the ball more effectively in advanced areas, and get forward quickly. Key players like Pedri, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha have thrived in Flick’s system, with Robert Lewandowski benefiting from improved support down the wings.

Despite the strong start, Flick has faced challenges, including financial constraints and injuries to key players like Ronald Araújo, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi. Flick has remained unfazed, refusing to make excuses and continuing to rely on young talent from La Masia to fill the gaps.

Barcelona has impressed early under Flick. While the team is young and financial issues loom, there’s hope that Flick is building a durable squad. Laporta remains patient, prioritizing progress over immediate silverware, however, if things stay on this line, Barcelona will most likely secure a title or two this season!

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