Barcelona secured their 28th La Liga title on Thursday, their first league triumph in six years, thanks to a commanding 2-0 win over Espanyol. Under German coach Hansi Flick, the Catalan giants have undergone a transformation that allowed them to wrest the crown from archrivals Real Madrid with two matches to spare. AFP Sport analyses the key factors behind Flick’s success.
Explosive Attack from Barcelona
Flick’s side impressed with their attacking prowess, scoring 97 goals in 36 league games—23 more than second-placed Real Madrid. From a dominant 7-0 victory over Valladolid in August to hitting four or more goals in 13 league matches, Barcelona’s offensive firepower was relentless.
Seventeen-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal led the creative charge with 13 assists, feeding veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, who scored 25 goals, and the dynamic winger Raphinha, who notched 18 goals and 9 assists. Flick’s decision to retain Raphinha paid off, with the Brazilian crediting the coach for revitalising his career.
Defensively, Flick implemented a high pressing line that often exposed risks but largely suffocated opponents, including Real Madrid in their recent Clasico, where the visitors failed to touch the ball in Barca’s half for the first 24 minutes.
Mentality Over Excuses
Flick instilled a resilient mentality, steering clear of excuses unlike his predecessor Xavi Hernandez, who lamented setbacks in a trophyless season. This new mindset empowered Barcelona players to take responsibility for their performances, fueling impressive comebacks, including overturning a two-goal deficit to beat Real Madrid 4-3 in May’s Clasico.
“The team’s mentality is incredible,” Flick said after securing a perfect record against Madrid this season. The squad now plays with joy and freedom, shedding pressure to deliver stylish, entertaining football.
Pedri: The Perfect Midfield Engine
Pedri Gonzalez, considered one of the world’s best midfielders, has been pivotal for Barcelona. After years hampered by injuries, the 22-year-old’s fitness this season allowed him to become the team’s heartbeat—both creatively and defensively. Operating without a holding midfielder due to injuries, Pedri’s agility and quick thinking have been essential in breaking opposition presses and launching swift counters.
Former Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger lauded Pedri as “absolutely incredible,” highlighting his influence on the team’s rhythm and resilience.
Raising Standards Across the Barcelona Squad
Flick boosted the entire squad’s fitness and confidence, reviving players who struggled the previous season. Defender Eric Garcia impressed despite being played out of position, while Ferran Torres provided vital support to Barcelona’s attacking trident as the third top scorer and assist provider in La Liga.
Inigo Martinez, who had a difficult prior season, emerged as a defensive leader alongside teenage talent Pau Cubarsi, forming a robust backline.
Bouncing Back from Midseason Slump
Despite a strong start, Barcelona endured a slump in November and December, winning only once in seven matches and losing unexpectedly at home to lower-ranked teams. Their league lead slipped as Atletico Madrid overtook them.
Flick responded by reintroducing Frenkie de Jong to midfield and making a key goalkeeper switch to Wojciech Szczesny. These changes sparked a 24-match unbeaten streak in all competitions, propelling Barca back to the top and ultimately to the title.
