Five biggest positives for Barcelona early in the Hansi Flick era

As Barcelona transition into a new era under Hansi Flick, there are several reasons for optimism. 

Despite the initial uncertainties that typically come with a managerial change, Barcelona have been reaping the benefits of Flick’s guidance. 

In this article, we will explore the top five standout positives during this new phase, emphasizing how the club has found a balance between youth development, veteran resurgence, and tactical evolution.

Yamal and Casado stepping up

La Masia, Barcelona’s famed youth academy, has long been the backbone of the club. Under Hansi Flick, the academy is proving its worth once again, with two standout talents: Marc Casado and Lamine Yamal.

Yamal has been nothing short of exceptional this season. At just 17, Yamal has already established himself as a key player in the squad, with five goals and five assists in 11 league matches. 

His dribbling prowess, creativity, and composure in front of goal have filled a significant void, offering Barcelona a spark in attack when needed most. 

His maturity and ability to handle pressure at such a young age are impressive, and he is quickly becoming one of the club’s most reliable attacking outlets.

Casado, on the other hand, has stepped into the midfield breach when Barcelona needed him most. With injuries to key midfielders like Frenkie de Jong, Gavi and Dani Olmo, Casado has shown he is capable of rising to the occasion. 

His work rate, positional awareness, and ability to play in both attacking and defensive roles have been invaluable. Given the lack of senior midfielders, his partnership with Pedri has been crucial in maintaining balance in the middle of the park. 

Veterans revival: Lewandowski and Martínez lead by example

In the world of football, the form and performance of veterans often dictate a club’s stability. For Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski and Inigo Martinez have defied the odds by revitalizing their careers under Hansi Flick.

Lewandowski, at 36, seems to have found a second wind. His recent performances showcase a renewed sense of energy and sharpness that some thought he had lost. With 12 goals in 11 matches, the Pole is Barcelona’s go-to man for goals. 

His clinical finishing, intelligence in movement, and link-up play have been pivotal in the team’s attack. 

But more than just his goal-scoring, Lewandowski is setting an example for the younger players, showing that hard work and discipline can extend a player’s career at the highest level.

Meanwhile, Martinez’s resurgence has been equally remarkable. Initially seen as a rotational option, he has become one of Flick’s undroppable players in defence. 

His leadership, positioning, and aerial prowess have solidified Barcelona’s backline. Despite being one of the oldest players on the team, he has emerged as a reliable presence, playing a crucial role in keeping the defence organized. 

Pedri’s fitness and new role

The transformation of Pedri under Hansi Flick has been one of the season’s standout stories. 

After struggling with injuries in the past, Pedri has stayed fit and has redefined his role in the team. Flick’s tactical tweaks have allowed Pedri to flourish by surrounding him with more attacking talent, giving him the freedom to orchestrate Barcelona’s midfield.

In previous seasons, Pedri was often left alone in attacking positions, forcing him to shoulder the burden of creating chances. This left him more vulnerable to fatigue and injuries. 

However, with the rise of Yamal and the rejuvenation of players like Raphinha, Pedri now has more options to distribute the ball. He no longer needs to carry the creative load single-handedly, and this has allowed him to play a more balanced, measured game.

Pedri’s new role also sees him contributing more defensively, becoming an integral part of the team’s pressing system. 

His increased stamina and adaptability have made him one of Barcelona’s most influential players. The midfielder’s ability to control the tempo, dictate play, and contribute in both attack and defence has been crucial to Barcelona’s resurgence.

Raphinha’s rise to prominence

Raphinha has been a key figure for Barcelona. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Few players have improved as much under Hansi Flick as Raphinha. After an uncertain start to his Barcelona career, the Brazilian winger has become one of the team’s main attacking threats. 

Flick’s decision to tweak Raphinha’s role has allowed him to shine, and his numbers reflect this improvement. He has become a reliable source of goals and assists, contributing significantly to the team’s success. 

His chemistry with Yamal and Lewandowski is evident, creating a fluid attacking trio that can break down even the most stubborn defences. 

Raphinha’s ability to play on either wing, cut inside, and take on defenders or even play centrally has added a new dimension to Barcelona’s attack. He is no longer just a peripheral figure but a key component in Flick’s plans.

Jules Kounde thriving at right-back

Jules Kounde has adapted seemingly this season. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

When the 2024/25 season began, there were serious concerns about Barcelona’s right-back position. With Joao Cancelo returning to Manchester City, many wondered who would fill the void. 

Jules Kounde, who had been insistent in the past on playing as a centre-back, has stepped up and made the right-back position his own.

Kounde’s performances have silenced any doubts. He has played every single minute before the Alaves game, showing remarkable consistency and adaptability. 

His ability to defend solidly while also contributing to attacks has been crucial. Kounde’s composure on the ball and his overlapping runs have provided Barcelona with both defensive stability and attacking support from the right flank. 

Under Flick, he has made the position his own, and his importance is only likely to grow as the season progresses.