The FC Barcelona is experiencing a true 180-degree revolution under the direction of Hansi Flick. In a few months, the culé team has evolved into an unstoppable, overwhelmingly offensive unit, scoring goals almost effortlessly and displaying notable physical intensity in pressing and tactical duties, demonstrating the necessary intelligence to deploy various playing styles with a solidity that rivals the best teams in the world at present.
In this regard, within the azulgrana squad, there are a number of players who have taken a significant step forward under the guidance of Hansi Flick. Players who may not have shown their best version during the 2023/24 season under the direction of Xavi Hernández, but who have now become fundamental pillars of the German coach's project. Below, at FCBN, we present who these players are.
Robert Lewandowski
The most evident case of all? Robert Lewandowski. The Polish 'killer', after a dream first season (2022/23) as a culé, where he scored 33 goals and provided eight assists, went through a period in the 2023/24 campaign where perhaps he didn't shine as much in terms of goals (26 goals and nine assists), leading to doubts about whether his best days were behind him, creating the idea that it was time to look for a more reliable replacement.
However, with the arrival of Hansi Flick, who already knew him from his time at Bayern Munich, he decided to keep him with the premise of being able to bring him back to his best level. And so it was, Robert Lewandowski has regained his voracity, showing himself reconciled with goals by currently tallying 12 goals and two assists in 11 matches.
Furthermore, 'Lewy' is seen physically fresh, active in the area, and well supplied, benefiting from the tactical change from 4-4-2 to 4-2-3-1 with more support in the offensive plane. In addition to his effectiveness as a finisher, he has shown willingness to get involved in the creation of play, revealing a more complete side and assuming a prominent leadership role.
Iñigo Martínez
Another case to consider is that of Iñigo Martínez. The Basque defender was unsure of his role for the 2024/25 season, after not being an undisputed starter under Xavi Hernández in the previous season, partly due to injuries and inconsistency in his performance caused by a lack of consistent playing time. Similarly, the uncertainty about his registration for this season complicated his continuity at the club.
However, once the issue of his registration was resolved and with Hansi Flick's desire to have him, the German coach placed him as a starter in defense, largely motivated by the lack of options in that area of the field. The Ondarroa native has managed to establish himself as a key player in the culé rearguard, currently accumulating 876 minutes of play and being the ideal complement to Pau Cubarsí in the center of the Barcelona defense. With experience and leadership, he has brought fundamental solidity to FC Barcelona.
Pedri González
Regarding transformations, one of the players who has experienced a notable change in performance is Pedri González. The Tegueste native, fortunately injury-free at present, is showing a facet more similar to that of Andrés Iniesta, excelling both as a central midfielder and as an attacking midfielder.
He is revealed as a creative and participative player, capable of controlling the game of FC Barcelona in the center of the field with ease and technical quality. Currently, he has accumulated two goals and two assists, showing more and more comfort and approaching his best level.
Raphinha
To conclude, it is essential to mention the case of Raphinha. The Porto Alegre native, before the start of this season, gave the impression of being destined to be one of the main discards of the culé club. During the 2023/2024 period, he lost his position as a right winger to the emergence of Lamine Yamal, and although he managed to find a place in Xavi Hernández's starting eleven as a left winger, his continuity was in doubt due to the search for a starting left-sided full-back by the azulgrana team and his market value.
However, Hansi Flick chose to retain him and give him a significant role in the team, even naming him one of the captains for the current campaign. Offensively, Raphinha has stood out as one of the best players of Barça, with six goals and six assists in 11 matches played.
'Rapha' shows an exceptional form, being one of the most tireless players on the field, demonstrating great commitment and becoming an indispensable piece for the German coach, whether as an attacking midfielder or left winger. His tactical intelligence and versatility allow him to operate in different areas of the field, being a complete player who not only contributes in attack with his scoring ability but also excels as a playmaker, posing a threat from various positions. A true blessing for the German coach.