The 10 commandments of Hansi Flick at Barcelona

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Hansi Flick’s arrival at Barcelona has brought about significant changes in the club’s internal culture. Though he may seem calm on the surface, Flick’s attention to detail and firm approach has reshaped the way the team operates. 

Since taking charge, he has abolished financial penalties and rewards, while introducing new rules and reinforcing some from Xavi’s earlier tenure. 

According to Diario AS, there are ten crucial rules that Barcelona players must now adhere to under Flick’s regime if they want to secure their place in the squad.

Punctuality is non-negotiable

The first rule is all about punctuality. Players and staff are required to arrive 90 minutes before training begins. Training typically starts at 11 am, which means everyone must be at the training ground by 9.30 am. 

Hansi Flick is very punctual. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

During this early period, the players have breakfast at Ciutat Esportiva while Flick discusses the day’s preparations with his staff, physical trainers, and medical team. It is during this time that decisions about the session and injured players are made.

Daily weight control

One of the most stringent rules Flick has imposed is daily weight control. Every morning, before the start of training, each player must step on the scales. The results are recorded and evaluated on a weekly basis. 

Additionally, Flick has added dental analysis to the regular medical checks, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each player’s physical condition.

Strict nutrition protocols

While players are not required to eat together, they are expected to follow a strict nutrition plan. The team nutritionist, Silvia Tremoleda, prepares a buffet from which all players must select their meals.

Matchday preparations and training

Barcelona also train on the matchdays (Photo by MANAURE QUINTERO/AFP via Getty Images)

Flick places great importance on matchday routines. He insists that players attend a warm-up session on the morning of every match, which he considers vital for preparing them for the game ahead. This routine can even influence his starting line-up choices.

Team meetings before games

Since Flick took charge, players are required to meet at the team hotel on matchdays. This ensures consistency in their preparations and allows the team to bond before the match.

Post-match rest is vital

Flick has also made significant changes to post-match routines. If a match ends late and the return journey will take more than 90 minutes, the team will stay overnight in that city. 

Flick believes that proper rest after a game is crucial, and he prefers players to avoid arriving home in the early hours of the morning exhausted and sleep-deprived.

Intense and data-driven training

Training sessions under Flick are highly disciplined and physically demanding. Players now wear GPS devices during training to monitor their physical output, which is then analysed. 

Hansi Flick puts more emphasis on physical training. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

These sessions typically last around 90 minutes, but when including pre and post-session activities, players spend around five hours a day at the training facility.

No more financial fines

One of the most notable changes under Flick is the removal of financial penalties for breaches of discipline. However, this does not mean there are no consequences for misconduct. Instead, Flick deals with indiscipline through other forms of punishment. 

Limited time off

Flick is not a fan of giving players extended breaks. At most, he allows one day off per week. Given the intensity of the season and the frequency of matches, there is little room for players to enjoy more rest.

Professional boundaries

Finally, Flick maintains a professional distance from his players. He does not see himself as a father figure or a friend but as their coach. 

His office door is always open, and he values respectful and committed communication. However, he is clear that the boundary between player and coach must not be crossed.

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