Hansi Flick gives Barcelona players time to reset after Real Madrid defeat

Hansi Flick has prioritised restoring Barcelona’s physical and mental freshness after identifying fatigue as a key factor in the team’s recent performances against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

The German manager believes his players have been carrying a heavy workload in recent weeks, with the effects particularly visible in those two matches. Barcelona now have a week without a fixture, allowing Flick to give the squad two days off before they return to training.

Flick’s concerns first increased 12 days ago during the team’s trip to Seville. Bad weather in Catalonia forced Barcelona to return to their hotel after spending more than an hour on the plane, before they faced a demanding journey to Paris. A series of injuries also added to the coaching staff’s worry.

Those concerns resurfaced during the latest El Clasico, when Barcelona appeared to lack some of the energy that had characterised their strong start to the season. Flick is now seeking ways to help the players rediscover that level of performance.

The manager has asked his squad to follow dietary instructions and focus on recovery during the break. He also wants them to step away temporarily from the pressures of football so they can clear their minds and return with greater concentration.

There will be a limited exception to that plan for the Ballon d’Or ceremony. Lamine Yamal, Juan Garcia and Rodri are expected to travel to attend the event, despite Flick’s desire to use the break as a genuine opportunity for the wider squad to rest.

Barcelona are expected to begin more detailed work on tactical issues and on-field performance from Wednesday. However, Flick’s immediate belief is that rest and distance from football’s pressures can help the players regain their form.

Injuries and academy options

Injuries remain one of the main challenges facing Flick, particularly in defence. The manager believes several of the problems have resulted from physical collisions rather than necessarily being caused by shortcomings in the team’s physical preparation.

Flick has previously stressed the importance of continuing to trust players from Barcelona’s La Masia academy while senior members of the squad are unavailable. That approach was evident in the El Clasico, when full-back Alex Campos was involved and midfielder Orian Joreen was given an opportunity in the absence of Dani Olmo.

More academy players are expected to feature in the coming period as Flick manages the injury crisis. At the same time, he is working to restore the team’s physical and mental sharpness following Barcelona’s 2-1 defeat by Real Madrid.