The winning goal of PSG, scored by Gonçalo Ramos after Achraf Hakimi managed to overflow the defense, highlighted the controversial strategy of coach Hansi Flick: the high defensive line.
Thierry Henry is unzipping Barça
Among the critical voices, the former striker Blaugranathierry Henry expressed himself without detour on CBS Sports. He severely judged the tactical approach of Flick, in particular his maintenance of a high line in the crucial moments of the match.
Henry declared without appeal: ” You can't play in the Champions League with such a high line, I'm sorry. When you play against large teams, you put yourself in danger. Each simple race can turn into a goal. And that's exactly what happened against PSG. We always mention it, but they did not want to change this. “He concluded his analysis by pointing out the stubbornness of certain coaches:” Sometimes managers can be obstinate in their strategy, but in important matches, this can be expensive. »»
The tactical dilemma of Hansi Flick
The adoption by Hansi Flick of a very high defensive line is a recurring point of discussion since his arrival in Barcelona in the summer of 2024.
If, overall, this approach has often been effective in taking the opponent on the trap of the offside and preventing many goal opportunities, it turned out to be expensive on several occasions, the match against PSG by being the most recent and painful example. The defeat suffered on a late counter, with a defense positioned so far from its goal, aroused strong criticism of the tactical choice at such an advanced time in the match.
Nevertheless, many Barça supporters will recall that this approach has often been paid since its establishment. The question that arises is whether Flick will be ready to adjust this strategy for the final stages of the season – around March or April – especially if the team manages to stay in the Champions League. It would then be the real test of Flick's ability to show pragmatism in the face of decisive issues.
Do you think that the high line of Flick is a necessary risk for the style of play in Barcelona, or a dangerous recklessness in Europe?
