Striking statistics reveal deeper issues behind Barcelona’s struggle | OneFootball

Barcelona’s start to the 2025/26 season has been far from ideal.

After a dream debut year under Hansi Flick that ended with a domestic treble, expectations were sky-high for the German coach’s second campaign.

Interestingly, nine games into the new season and the numbers – and more importantly, the performances – tell a completely different story.

The reality is, though, that the team looks disjointed this season, lacking sharpness in attack and stability in defence.

Data exposes the drop in work rate

Now, according to SPORT, Barcelona were among the most hard-working teams in La Liga last season, ranking fifth in distance covered per game with an average of 117.4 kms – well above the league’s average of 115.5 kms.

Only Celta Vigo, Atletico Madrid, Girona, and Espanyol managed to post better figures. This high level of intensity, combined with Flick’s trademark pressing and ball control, helped Barça dominate games deep into the final minutes.

But the current season paints a completely different picture.

Barcelona are running very less. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

In the opening nine fixtures, Barcelona have dropped to fifteenth place in distance covered, averaging only 113.4 kms per game, which is nearly four kilometres less than last season and below the current La Liga average of 115 kms.

This decline is not just a number as it reflects a visible drop in energy, rhythm, and effort.

In contrast, rivals like Atletico Madrid average more than 120 kms, while teams such as Espanyol, Elche, and Celta all exceed 117 kms. Barcelona, meanwhile, are near the bottom of the table in this aspect.

Flick’s system losing its edge

The numbers mirror what fans are seeing on the pitch. Last season, Flick’s Barcelona were defined by relentless pressing and quick recoveries in the opponent’s half.

That intensity allowed them to dictate the tempo and control matches with authority. This season, however, the spark is missing.

The data shows a steep drop in high-intensity sprints, particularly in the 21–24 km/h range, which suggests the players are not only running less but also struggling to accelerate and reach attacking zones with the same energy.

In short, Barcelona’s physical decline has stripped away one of their greatest strengths under Flick – the ability to dominate through effort and discipline.