Barcelona’s impressive start to the season suffered an unexpected setback following consecutive defeats against PSG and Real Madrid.
The results have exposed weaknesses in Hansi Flick’s team. However, the club’s leadership is not losing faith in the project.
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According to journalist Achraf Ben Ayad, Barcelona’s board expressed complete confidence in the players and coaching staff during its latest meeting.
Despite the disappointing results, the decision-makers remain firmly behind the German manager and believe the squad can recover its best form.
Sunday’s 2-1 Clasico defeat to Real Madrid saw Barcelona’s advantage in La Liga reduced to just three points.
The Catalans had won their opening nine league matches, scoring goals for fun and looking unstoppable.
The board retain complete faith in Barcelona’s project. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
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However, they ran into a resolute Real Madrid side at the Spotify Camp Nou who came with a clear plan and played Barcelona off the park.
Club president Joan Laporta had already defended Flick following the Clasico, insisting: “It was a tough blow, but the players are young and they bounce back quickly. We weren’t able to play our usual game, but we’re still top of the table.
“We’re still top of La Liga and our expectations remain intact. And Flick is the ideal manager for Barça.”
Interestingly, the board’s backing follows a separate initiative within the dressing room, where Raphinha and Rodri helped organise a team barbecue on Wednesday to strengthen unity.
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The players are said to have discussed their recent mistakes at that gathering, including poor pressing, careless passing and insufficient defensive cover.
They have, however, maintained that they can return to their best level if they iron out the issues that have crept into their game.
Two losses don’t take away the start Barcelona have had to the season. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Flick has done an excellent job of assembling this squad and getting them to play a recognisable style of football.
The two defeats in the last week should not overshadow the fact that this remains an excellent start to the season for Barcelona, who have won 11 of their first 13 games.
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The Catalans now face Alaves, Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid before the international break, giving the squad a chance to bounce back.
The board has also made their position on Flick clear, and it never really seemed to be in doubt. It remains to be seen whether the team have learnt from their errors and can put on a show against Alaves this weekend.
