Barcelona locker room acknowledges room for improvement after back-to-back losses | OneFootball

Thursday’s training session was one of reflection for FC Barcelona as manager Hansi Flick held a long and important meeting with his staff and the players.

As reported already, Flick held an open discussion about what has happened over the past week – with Barça losing back-to-back games against Atletico Madrid and Girona.

The manager insisted on the need to react and return to the key principles that brought success last season: intense high pressing, avoiding losses of possession in dangerous areas, maintaining defensive organisation and proper tactical positioning.

Squad admits issues

Now, building on that, SPORT reports that the meeting was not a one-way address from coach to players. The moment required voices to be raised in self-criticism, and the squad responded.

The players’ collective diagnosis was very similar to Flick’s. They made it clear that some concepts which worked perfectly last season have not been as effective this term and outlined which adjustments are needed to restore the balance essential for success.

Flick wants Barcelona to return to their ways from last season. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Several voices within the squad took part in this necessary exchange. Flick and his staff were satisfied with the feedback received.

The players committed to returning to those guiding principles and agreed that in recent matches they had drifted away from the intensity and high pressing that underpin their approach.

The squad acknowledged that when they are not operating at 100%, the system and the advanced defensive line suffer. They have already shown that they are capable of performing at maximum level.

Up next for Barcelona is a home game against UD Levante in La Liga on Sunday and the reigning champions will be eager to bounce back to winning ways.