Report identifies two reasons why Barcelona have been underperforming recently | OneFootball

FC Barcelona had a memorable start to life under Hansi Flick, coming close to having the best start to a season in the history of the Catalan club.

In addition to getting the required results, the team was also playing highly entertaining football, and it increasingly looked like the Blaugranes had returned to their rightful place at the summit of Spanish and European football.

However, the last few games have significantly dampened the ecstatic mood, as Barcelona were able to secure only 1 point from a possible 6 in their last two league games.

After the draw against Celta Vigo, Flick complained that his players were performing at only 80% of their potential. One cannot help but agree with the German tactician’s assessment. Now Mundo Deportivo has identified two main reasons for this decline in the team’s performances.

Firstly, the Spanish publication highlights an emotional factor behind the decline, suggesting that the players became complacent after their impressive victories over Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, believing the remaining games would be relatively easy to win.

Secondly, Mundo Deportivo points to a physical factor, noting that five key players—Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, and Pedri—have played 18 consecutive games.

Similarly, Lamine Yamal featured in all 16 matches before his injury, while Íñigo Martínez has participated in 17 out of a possible 18 games.

There is a clear lack of squad rotation, which naturally impacts the players’ ability to perform at their best. Injuries have undoubtedly added to Flick’s challenges, but it is now up to him to ensure his players receive the necessary rest to maintain peak performance throughout a long and demanding season.