Predictable? Many observers and fans of FC Barcelona were not really surprised by the result of the Clasico (2-1). More than the score itself, it is perhaps even the content of the match proposed by Hansi Flick's troops which did not overly surprise the followers of the Catalan club. Indeed, the team has been at a disadvantage for some time, and even in matches won by the Blaugranas, certain shortcomings and difficulties have clearly been observed.
The team is more fragile
The departure of Iñigo MartĂnez – not replaced – had already been singled out as a real problem. If the management seemed convinced that the team was not going to suffer unduly, it is clear that the Barcelona rearguard is much more fragile without the Basque. Whether on an individual level, with players like Jules KoundĂ© or Pau CubarsĂ very far from their level of last year, or on a collective level, with an often misaligned line and rival attackers who feast on their backs, the contrast is striking. And the defense is not just the back four, but the whole team, and this high pressing that was so effective last year is, for example, executed much less this season, which also contributes to the ease of opponents in creating chances. The team has only 3 clean sheets in all competitions this season, and the last one dates back to the match against Getafe, more than a month ago.
A team lacking inspiration?
If Barça's defense is more feverish, it is also because the team controls the matches less and leaves its furthest back players more exposed to opposing offensives. Barcelona players are much less in control of their subject in matches, and often struggle to really take control. If Pedri displays a generally satisfactory level despite a more than average performance at the Bernabéu, the players around him struggle a little more. The circulation of the ball is much less fluid, the ball carrier has fewer solutions, and the offensive animation is clearly at half mast. Barça have lost this freshness, this spontaneity and this ability to get into the opponent's trap, and are now slower and much more predictable.
The opponents have adapted
Last season, Barça surprised – positively – everyone in Spain and Europe. Many opponents were confused and didn't really know how to neutralize and thwart this brand new FC Barcelona from Hansi Flick. But obviously, after a full season, opposing coaches have had time to study the strengths and weaknesses of the Spanish champion. The famous offside trap is therefore much less effective, the passing circuits are more predictable, and the different ways of hurting the Barcelona defense have been well studied.
Physical glitches don't help
It should still be noted, in an exercise of good faith, that Hansi Flick can legitimately use the excuse of physical glitches. This season, FC Barcelona is facing a significant injury epidemic. Against Real Madrid, the German coach was deprived of several major players, such as Joan Garcia, Raphinha, Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski and Gavi. Earlier this season, Alejandro BaldĂ©, FermĂn LĂłpez, Eric Garcia and many others also missed several matches, while Lamine Yamal does not seem to be fully recovered from his pubalgia which also deprived him of several matches. In this context, Hansi Flick often has to do DIY.
