Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has declared his intention to drastically improve his team\'s defensive approach despite their remarkable success this season, which has seen them secure LaLiga and Copa del Rey titles while reaching the Champions League semifinals.
\"For me... it\'s not always fun. I\'ve sometimes suffered a lot,\" Flick told reporters following Barcelona\'s victory over Real Madrid on Sunday that moved them closer to clinching LaLiga.
Defensive Stability Top Priority
The German coach specifically highlighted his team\'s defensive vulnerability as the primary area needing immediate improvement. Barcelona have mounted six dramatic comebacks from two-goal deficits this season alone.
\"I know that we have huge improvements to make in our defending,\" Flick stated. \"We need much greater defensive stability. It\'s not easy defending like we do and all of us commit errors, but we must learn and we must get much better.\"
Barcelona\'s transfer strategy appears aligned with Flick\'s vision, with Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah reportedly at the top of their target list for the upcoming window. The 6-foot-5 German international would join on a free transfer, addressing both tactical needs and financial constraints.
Balancing Entertainment and Efficiency
Flick acknowledged that while Barcelona\'s attack-minded approach has thrilled neutrals, his tactical philosophy demands more pragmatism in game management.
\"This is a very young team and we need to take more care in certain specific situations,\" Flick had previously noted in November. \"We always want to attack and play, but sometimes it\'s enough to control possession and defend a lead really well.\"
Despite these concerns, Barcelona remain on course for three trophies this season, with only the Champions League eluding them after their dramatic semifinal exit to Inter Milan. The Catalan club had been leading 3-2 in the closing minutes of that tie before conceding an equalizer that led to their elimination in extra time.