Five Barcelona players that have improved the most under Hansi Flick

Hansi Flick’s arrival at Barcelona has sparked a noticeable transformation in several players. The team is evolving, and while many expected the club to shine, the individual improvements have been remarkable. 

Flick’s tactical approach has brought the best out of players, allowing them to thrive in different roles or enhance their existing skills. 

In this article, we will discuss five Barcelona players who have shown significant progress under Flick’s management.

Marc Casado

Marc Casado has been given a big responsibility by Hansi Flick. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

One of the most notable improvements has been seen in Marc Casado. The young midfielder has benefitted greatly from Flick’s guidance, becoming an integral part of the squad. 

Initially seen as a promising talent, Casado’s growth has been steady but remarkable under the German manager. Flick’s trust in him, particularly in high-pressure situations, has allowed Casado to showcase his maturity and composure on the ball. 

His ability to read the game has improved significantly, and he has adapted well to various midfield roles, making him more versatile while also drawing comparisons with Sergio Busquets. 

Flick’s influence on Casado has also been evident in the way he commands the midfield. He has become more vocal on the pitch, taking on leadership responsibilities despite his young age. Casado is becoming a reliable option in Barcelona’s midfield, and his future under Flick’s system looks promising.

Raphinha

Raphinha has repaid Flick’s trust. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Raphinha is another player who has flourished under Flick. The Brazilian winger has always been known for his flair and creativity, but under Flick, he has developed a more complete game. 

His defensive work rate has improved significantly, and he now tracks back more effectively, helping the team in transitions. 

Raphinha has also become more disciplined tactically, understanding when to take risks and when to keep it simple. This has made him a more consistent and one of the most versatile performers in the squad.

Additionally, Flick has managed to bring out the best in Raphinha’s attacking abilities. The winger’s confidence in front of goal has grown, and his contributions in terms of both goals and assists have increased. 

His link-up play with the forwards, particularly Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal, has become more fluid, making him a vital part of Barcelona’s attacking setup.

Pedri

Pedri is enjoying more freedom under Flick. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Pedri has been one of Barcelona’s brightest talents in recent years, and under Hansi Flick, he has taken his game to the next level. Flick’s tactical system has allowed Pedri to express himself more freely on the pitch, while also improving his positional sense. 

While a lot has to do with Casado too, Pedri’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game has become even more pronounced, and his vision and passing have been crucial in unlocking defences. 

He has also become more influential in Barcelona’s pressing game, constantly harrying opponents and winning back possession high up the pitch. Another aspect of Pedri’s development under Flick has been his physicality. 

While Pedri was always known for his technical skills, he has become more robust, able to withstand challenges and cover more ground. 

Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski is scoring goals for fun. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Lewandowski has maintained his reputation as one of the best strikers in the world, but under Flick, he has adapted his game to fit Barcelona’s style more seamlessly. 

The Polish striker’s finishing has always been top-class, but what has stood out this season is his link-up play. Flick has encouraged Lewandowski to drop deeper at times, helping the team in the buildup phase. 

This has added another dimension to Barcelona’s attack, as the POle is not only a goal threat but also a creator for his teammates. 

Furthermore, his experience has been crucial in guiding younger players like Casado and Pedri, and his work ethic sets an example for the rest of the squad. 

Flick’s tactical system has allowed Lewandowski to thrive in a more dynamic role, proving that even at this stage of his career, the striker continues to evolve and contribute in various ways, having scored nine goals in 10 matches already.

Jules Kounde

Jules Kounde has been a consistent performer for Barcelona. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Though Jules Kounde has not seen as much improvement as some of the others, he has remained consistent at the top level under Flick’s guidance. 

Kounde has been a reliable presence in Barcelona’s defence, showcasing his ability to read the game and make crucial interventions. 

His versatility, being able to play both as a centre-back and right-back, has been an asset to the team, and Flick has utilised him effectively in both positions.

Kounde’s defensive awareness and composure on the ball have been key to Barcelona’s solidity at the back. 

While he may not have experienced the same noticeable growth as players like Casado or Pedri, his consistency has been vital in ensuring that Barcelona’s defence remains strong throughout the season.