The third summer signing that has revamped Barcelona this season

Hansi Flick’s team has hit the ground running this season, starting with four wins on the trot. 

The last time Barcelona started a season with four straight wins was in the 2018/2019 season. Back then, the team was led by Ernesto Valverde, and stars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Ousmane Dembele, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Gerard Pique were at their peak. 

That season ended with Messi lifting his final league title with the club, a season that many fans remember fondly. Now, under Flick, Barcelona seem to be recapturing some of that old magic, playing with a sense of purpose and determination that had been missing.

The Blaugranas’ strong performance was not just a one-off; they have shown consistent form right from the first matchday. Despite a team plagued with injuries, Barcelona secured a victory against Valencia. 

They followed this up by beating Athletic Club and continued their winning streak with a hard-fought win against Rayo Vallecano, one of the toughest teams to beat on their home turf in LaLiga.

There were some doubts among Barcelona fans and analysts about whether Flick could bring back the hope and excitement that seemed lost over the past year, which was filled with more disappointments than celebrations. 

However, Flick has managed to turn things around remarkably quickly. His approach and strategies have injected new life into the team, bringing back the flair and personality that had been missing. 

On his first major night in Barcelona, the entire stadium was chanting his name, celebrating not just the win but the way the team played. This marked a significant moment, showing that Flick’s philosophy is being embraced by both players and supporters alike.

Like a new signing

Barcelona players have responded well to Hansi Flick’s tactics. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Under Flick, one of the standout performances this season has come from Raphinha. The Brazilian forward scored the first hat-trick of his career against Valladolid, making him the hero of the match.

This is Raphinha’s third season with Barcelona, and his influence both on and off the pitch has been recognised by his teammates, who have chosen him as one of the five captains of the team. 

He was selected ahead of players like Robert Lewandowski, who, despite not having the captain’s armband, remains a key figure in Flick’s plans and a leader in the dressing room.

The game against Valladolid perfectly showcased Flick’s football philosophy. His Barcelona side was relentless with their pressing, tireless in their effort, and quick to turn defence into attack. 

However, this did not come at the cost of their attacking style; the team dominated possession and played much of the game in the opponent’s half. 

This aggressive yet controlled approach has allowed Barcelona to secure eight consecutive wins in La Liga — four from this season and another four carried over from the end of last season. This is a feat they haven’t achieved since January 2019, and it highlights the effectiveness of Flick’s methods.

Moved on from the past

Barcelona look like a new team under Hansi Flick. (Photo by MANU QUINTERO/AFP via Getty Images)

The memories of Xavi’s Barcelona, which seemed sluggish, uninspired, and unable to turn things around when needed, are now a distant memory. The atmosphere around the club has changed dramatically. 

The frustrations of a disappointing transfer market, broken promises about reinforcements, and the infamous Nike contract debacle, which was supposed to provide significant financial relief, are no longer at the forefront of people’s minds. 

Instead, the focus is on the team’s on-field performance and their potential for success this season.

However, the upcoming international break may come at a bad time for Barcelona. The team is currently in great form, and the momentum could be disrupted. 

This is something no one would have expected a few months ago, especially after Xavi’s departure under less-than-ideal circumstances and the financial struggles that restricted the club’s movements in the transfer market. 

But beyond the summer signings like Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor, it is clear that the most significant addition to Barcelona this season has been Hansi Flick.