Hansi Flick’s words after Barcelona’s 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano, in which he stated that ‘egos kill success,’ have captured significant media attention.
However, as Mundo Deportivo points out, Flick was not the first to issue a warning about the potential danger of inflated egos in the squad. Pep Guardiola, the current Manchester City manager and former Barcelona coach, had already expressed similar concerns last summer.
In a DAZN interview at the end of last season, Guardiola reflected on his own team’s challenges but also took the opportunity to discuss his beloved Barcelona. Speaking about the club’s exciting new generation, he said:
“This whole generation of Lamine, Pedri, and the Cubarsís… hopefully it can be maintained and that the egos stay nice and calm.”
Few understand Barcelona as deeply as Guardiola. His experience in football, combined with his intimate knowledge of the Catalan club, gives him a unique perspective on how even the most talented teams can unravel if egos take over.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 14: Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona, reacts during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Valencia CF at Estadi Johan Cruyff on September 14, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images
Flick’s warning echoes Guardiola’s earlier concerns, highlighting the delicate balance of managing a team full of young stars and high achievers. If managed carefully, the Catalan side can continue to thrive domestically and in Europe.
Hopefully, Flick can navigate this challenge and keep Barcelona’s promising generation focused on success, rather than letting internal dynamics undermine their achievements.