Although the overall start to the new season has not been disastrous, the week leading up to the October international break was one to forget for FC Barcelona.
In the space of a few days, they suffered a narrow but draining defeat against Paris Saint-Germain, followed by one of their most disappointing performances of the season in the 4–1 loss to Sevilla.
For Hansi Flick, the break has arrived at the perfect moment. It offers a much-needed opportunity for reflection, recovery, and a clear reassessment of what has gone wrong in recent games.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the German coach has already carried out a detailed analysis of these two defeats and, while he is concerned, there is no sense of panic. Instead, Flick has already identified several key areas that he believes can help his team regain its competitive edge once club football resumes.
1: Restoring the lost intensity
SEVILLE, SPAIN - OCTOBER 05: Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona, reacts during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on October 05, 2025 in Seville, Spain.
Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images
Hansi Flick believes that the foundation of his success at Barcelona last season, built on intensity, commitment, and relentless physical drive, has diminished in recent weeks.
The coach wants his players to rediscover the same hunger and work ethic that made them one of the most aggressive and energetic sides in Europe.
For Flick, the solution lies in returning to basics: hard work on the training pitch and a collective determination to fight for every ball.
He remains calm because he trusts his players and knows that, statistically, the team is still well-positioned. In La Liga, they sit only two points behind Real Madrid, and their Champions League campaign mirrors last season’s start with one win and one defeat.
After a short break, Flick and his staff will resume training with the non-international players, focusing on rebuilding rhythm and intensity before the full squad returns.
2: The return of key injured players
Flick has refused to use injuries as an excuse, yet he openly acknowledges their impact on recent results. The defeats to PSG and Sevilla came at a time when the squad was stretched thin, with several key figures unavailable.
Raphinha, Fermin Lopez, and Lamine Yamal all missed time due to injuries, while Gavi and Joan Garcia were also sidelined. The coach is confident that the return of these players will provide a huge boost.
Raphinha and Fermin have been pivotal to Barcelona’s pressing and creativity, while Yamal’s pace and unpredictability add a crucial spark to the attack. All three are expected to rejoin the group after the international break, which could immediately raise the team’s performance level.
With more rotation options available, Flick hopes to avoid the fatigue that was evident in recent matches and maintain the physical balance required to sustain his demanding style of play.
3: Tactical refinements on the table
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 17: Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona takes part in an exercise during a training session ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 against Newcastle United at St James' Park on September 17, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
While Flick remains committed to his high defensive line and pressing approach, he is also considering subtle tactical adjustments. The coach believes the system itself is not the issue, but certain details can be improved to make the team more balanced.
One of his current ideas is to experiment with Marcus Rashford in a central striking role. The Englishman’s movement, pace, and finishing could offer a new dimension up front, while allowing Raphinha to return to his preferred left-wing position once fit.
Ferran Torres’s versatility and work rate have impressed the coaching staff, but Flick wants to explore all possible configurations before settling on his best attacking formula.
Robert Lewandowski, meanwhile, is expected to play a slightly different role for Barcelona this season, contributing his experience in key moments and providing leadership both on and off the pitch.
4: A focus on self-criticism and unity
Flick has emphasized that recovery begins with self-awareness. Several senior players, including Pedri and Pau Cubarsi, have publicly admitted that the team must do better. Their comments reflect a locker room that is aware of its shortcomings and determined to respond collectively.
The coach views this attitude as a positive sign. He wants the squad to strengthen its internal unity, rebuild the sense of family that defined last season, and remember that every individual contribution matters. The goal is to foster an environment where competition is healthy, but the team always comes first.
Flick believes that once the players regain their mental sharpness and togetherness, their performances will naturally rise to the expected level.
5: Open to January reinforcements
Although Flick maintains full confidence in his current squad, the same core that delivered the domestic treble last season, he remains realistic about the challenges ahead. The departure of Inigo Martinez has left a noticeable gap in defense, and the coach has rarely been able to rely on a consistent center-back pairing.
Barcelona sporting department is already monitoring potential signings, especially a left-footed central defender who could restore balance at the back. Depending on how Flick’s tactical experiments develop, a new forward could also be considered.
For now, the priority is to maximize the potential of the existing group. But if the right opportunity arises in January, Flick is open to reinforcing key positions to ensure the team remains competitive on all fronts.
A time for reflection and renewal
The upcoming weeks will be crucial for FC Barcelona. With injured players returning, intensity being restored, and tactical ideas evolving, Hansi Flick believes that his team can quickly rediscover the level that made them champions last season.
The German coach remains confident, composed, and convinced that hard work and unity will once again guide the Catalan side back to winning ways.