2024 Ballon d’Or winner claims he is ‘surprised’ by Hansi Flick’s Barcelona team | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have been thriving under Hansi Flick so far this season, as is evident from their results. Beyond just being a team that wins games, the Blaugranes are ensuring that they emerge victorious in dominant fashion against top opposition. The wins that Barcelona managed over both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are clear examples of this.

Despite a few stumbles here and there, the most recent one coming against Real Sociedad, it is clear that this Barcelona team plays with a certain philosophy. While it may not be the traditional style that the club is synonymous with, it still reflects a distinct identity.

However, even outsiders have begun to take note of this rather special team, and the praise directed towards Hansi Flick’s side highlights just how remarkable they have looked so far. The latest Ballon d’Or winner in 2024, Manchester City star Rodri, recently spoke about this particular iteration of Barcelona.

As highlighted by Fabrizio Romano, Rodri spoke about how this team had ‘surprised’ him and that he wants to see more of what Hansi Flick can manage with this team:

“We’re all surprised by Barça level this season. I’m happy to see many Spanish players shining there. It looks like a team that can do fantastic things next. You like to see Barça playing under Hansi Flick.”

Whereas Rodri himself is currently out of action and is recovering from an ACL injury, perhaps he has had more time to watch and tune in to Barcelona games that have recently taken place. Moreover, given that several of his Spanish teammates play for the club, it may be another incentive for him.

Interestingly, Rodri is also one of the players who has openly suggested that Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal has what it takes to one day win the Ballon d’Or himself.

The Manchester City midfielder is only the latest winner of the award to have said this, however, as some of the greatest players to ever play the sport have also said something along the same lines even before him.