Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has called for greater concentration from his team as they look to revive their LaLiga title hopes. A recent dip in form has left the Blaugrana third in the standings, six points behind leaders Real Madrid and five behind Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona’s Recent Struggles
Barça have endured a four-match winless streak in LaLiga, most recently drawing 1-1 with Getafe. Late goals have been a recurring issue, with the team conceding decisive strikes in stoppage time during a 2-2 draw with Real Betis and a 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid.
This trend has cost Barcelona dearly, with seven of the 23 goals they’ve conceded this season coming in the 76th minute or later—only six teams in LaLiga have conceded more during that time frame.
Flick acknowledged the team’s lapses:
“In Getafe, it was our fault that we didn’t finish the game with the three points. We didn’t play very well; we weren’t focused. That has to change. We have to be focused from the start and until the end.”
Upcoming Clash with Valencia
Barcelona face Valencia on Sunday, with their opponents sitting 19th in the table but enjoying an unbeaten run across their last four matches in all competitions. Flick expects a tough challenge:
“Valencia have stabilized their defense, and they know how to play. It will be a demanding game for us. Their defense is very good. It won’t be easy.”
The coach also hinted at squad rotation following their midweek Champions League trip to Portugal, where Barça secured a dramatic 5-4 victory over Benfica to reach the last 16.
“We need fresh legs tomorrow. We have a few changes in the team, and we will see.”
Looking Ahead
Flick emphasized the importance of taking things one game at a time:
“For me, it’s very important to win every game. That’s how we want to approach it. We always think about the next one. After Valencia, we’ll see against Atalanta [in the Champions League].”
Conclusion
Barcelona’s title ambitions hinge on their ability to maintain focus throughout matches. With a critical stretch of games ahead, including a Champions League clash against Atalanta, Flick’s side must address their defensive lapses to stay in contention for silverware.
