Barcelona have secured their 28th La Liga title and only their second in six seasons under the guidance of Hansi Flick, who has transformed the club into a dynamic and dominant force once again. A 2-0 win over Espanyol sealed the championship with two games to spare, capping off a thrilling campaign.
The Insight Media Sports Arena looks at how the German tactician masterminded Barça’s return to the summit of Spanish football.
Relentless Attack
Flick’s Barcelona have dazzled with their attacking prowess all season, outscoring opponents with ease. The team racked up a staggering 97 goals in 36 matches, 23 more than closest rivals Real Madrid. Their intent was clear from the outset, with a 7-0 demolition of Valladolid in August. They went on to score four or more goals in 13 league fixtures.
Seventeen-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal played a key creative role, leading La Liga with 13 assists. Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski contributed 25 goals, while Raphinha enjoyed a career-best season with 18 goals and 9 assists. The Brazilian credited Flick with revitalizing his game after being persuaded to stay at the club.
Flick’s high-pressing system and advanced defensive line kept opponents under constant pressure, even against top-tier teams. Reflecting on their 4-3 win over Madrid, Flick noted, “For 24 minutes, Real Madrid didn’t touch the ball in our half. The way we press, this is unbelievable.”
Winning Mentality
In contrast to last season under Xavi Hernandez who often deflected blame with excuses, Flick instilled accountability and mental resilience within the squad. His refusal to focus on external factors helped players take ownership of their performances.
This mindset led to several comeback victories, most notably the dramatic 4-3 triumph over Real Madrid on May 11, where Barça rallied from two goals down. “The team’s mentality is incredible,” said Flick, who boasts a perfect four wins from four against Los Blancos this season.
The players appear unburdened by pressure and more intent on enjoying their football, an attitude reflected in their entertaining, free-flowing style.
Pedri’s Pivotal Role
Fit and firing for the first time in years, Pedri González has been central to Barcelona’s success. The 22-year-old has commanded midfield both offensively and defensively, especially crucial given injuries to Marc Bernal and Marc Casado.
Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger praised him, saying, “Pedri is absolutely incredible, I’m on my knees for him.” His agility and vision have allowed Barcelona to launch attacks quickly while maintaining control in tight spaces.
Raising the Bar
Flick’s impact went beyond tactics, he improved the team’s overall fitness, confidence, and trust in underperforming players. Defender Eric Garcia, retained by Flick, impressed in various roles. Ferran Torres emerged as a valuable contributor, ranking third in both goals and assists for the club.
Perhaps the most remarkable turnaround came from Iñigo Martínez. Struggling last season, the defender became a defensive linchpin alongside teenage sensation Pau Cubarsí, offering stability and leadership.
Overcoming the Winter Slump
Despite their electric start, Barcelona hit a rough patch in November and December, managing just one win in seven matches and suffering surprising defeats to Leganés and Las Palmas. Their lead slipped, and Atletico briefly overtook them after a pre-Christmas defeat.
Flick responded decisively. He reinstated Frenkie de Jong in midfield and handed goalkeeping duties to Wojciech Szczęsny, replacing Iñaki Peña. The changes sparked a revival: Barcelona went on a 24-match unbeaten run across all competitions, surging back to secure the title.
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