The new season at Barcelona has begun with a win, but not without a dose of disappointment made public from the manager. Following a seemingly dominant 3-0 victory over Real Mallorca, head coach Hansi Flick expressed his frustration in the post match press conference with what he perceived as a lack of intensity from his players.
While a three-goal margin would satisfy most managers, Flick’s comments have ignited a debate: is his frustration justified, or is he simply being too demanding too early with pre-season form and fitness likely to play a role in the perceived lack of intensity?
On one hand, the German's perspective is understandable. Flick’s coaching philosophy is built on relentless pressure and a high-tempo game. He is known for his teams' ability to suffocate opponents with a high press, leaving no room for them to breathe.
A 3-0 scoreline might look good on paper, but if the underlying performance lacked the intensity he demands, it could signal deeper issues. The win was made more easy by the two first half red cards to Manu Morlanes and Vedat Muriqi which may have already allowed the players to relax in the second half, especially given they were 2-0 up at half time.
"“It’s positive to start with three points, but I can’t say I’m completely satisfied. With two more men, we should have controlled the game more and created more chances. I didn’t like the game. After a 2-0 deficit and two red cards, I think the team played at 50 percent, and I didn’t like it. We can do better. Playing at 50 or 60 percent against nine players isn’t possible. We have to play faster. We have to improve some situations. ""Hansi Flick after the Real Mallorca win
In his view, a win is not enough; the manner of the victory is what truly matters. He continues to push for a relentless culture, insisting his players adopt the mindset needed for tougher battles ahead. With hopes of igniting their domestic treble charge in emphatic fashion, he’s demanding nothing less than a statement start. Against a well-organized side like Mallorca, any drop in intensity could have been capitalized on, even if it wasn't this time. Flick’s concern is not about the result but about preventing bad habits from forming.
However, many would argue that a 3-0 victory in the first game of a new season is a fantastic start and that the frustration is a touch over the top. The team is still adjusting to a repeat of a new set of expectations, which have been. Players are getting back to their newly learnt roles, and a flawless performance right out of the gate is an unrealistic expectation. Furthermore, the win itself was convincing given the upper hand.
Ultimately, whether Flick's frustration is justified depends on your perspective. From a purist's point of view, his high standards are exactly what Barcelona needs to return to the pinnacle of European football and go one further to claim the European crown. He is setting the bar high and refusing to accept anything less than total commitment.
Los Cules fans will claim in Hansi Flick, we trust. Following the success last season, the German manager has credit in the bank to demand more to continue winning.