Ever since Hansi Flick took over at Barcelona, the German coach has made it clear that the club’s future lies in trusting its young talents.
Players such as Marc Bernal and Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernández have stepped into the first-team setup and adapted impressively to his demanding style.
This growing integration of La Masia players reflects Flick’s tactical vision, which heavily revolves around intensity and pressing.
To understand their integration, it is imperative to understand what exactly the manager demands from these players.
What does Flick demand?
Mundo Deportivo, in that regard, seems to have an answer. The outlet mentions that one of the core principles Flick stresses to his young players is relentless pressing, which is a key area that deeply concerns him.
While he gives them the freedom to express themselves with the ball, his main demand is to apply constant pressure when out of possession.
After Barcelona’s Champions League clash against Olympiacos, where Dro made his debut, the youngster shed light on the manager’s expectations.
Pedro Fernandez, Barcelona player
Dro provided an assist against Olympiacos. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
“He asks me to press hard, and with the ball, he tells me to enjoy it and show what I bring to training,” said the attacking midfielder.
Flick’s advice sums up his approach perfectly – disciplined off the ball, creative on it.
That mindset was evident during the match, as Barcelona successfully neutralised Olympiacos’ pressure.
Dro went on to provide an assist, becoming the second-youngest player in the Champions League to register an assist.
Similar advice to everyone
Interestingly, Flick’s guidance to Dro mirrored what he had told Toni Fernandez before his La Liga debut against Girona, highlighting that pressing is a non-negotiable part of his system.
So far, Flick has given opportunities to nine academy graduates this season, namely, Andres Cuenca, Marc Bernal, Dro, Sergi Dominguez, Toni Fernandez, Jofre Torrents, Dani Rodriguez, Pau Victor, and Gerard Martin.
For Flick, the message is to bring energy, discipline, and courage to define the new Barcelona generation.