Hansi Flick enforces rigorous training standards to guarantee peak fitness at FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona’s 2023/24 campaign was blemished by tactical shortcomings and a lack of physical fitness among the squad, as the Blaugrana, once known for its relentless pressing and unyielding stamina, faltered when it mattered most.

Injuries were rampant, particularly in the midfield, where Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong all suffered significant setbacks at various junctures of the season. This left the team perpetually thin in the middle of the pitch, forcing makeshift lineups that struggled to maintain quality.

While former manager Xavi Hernández bore the brunt of the criticism for the team's underperformance, it was obvious that injuries played an equally, if not more significant, role in Barcelona’s struggles. That’s precisely why new coach Hansi Flick has wasted no time addressing the club’s physical deficiencies.

Recognizing the nexus between physical fitness and peak performance, Flick has introduced a set of rigorous training protocols that optimize the squad’s health and recovery. The German’s philosophy emphasizes the physical performance of his men, assuring that they are fully equipped for the rigorous task at hand.

With their sights set on dethroning the mighty Real Madrid, Barcelona is determined to reclaim its position at the pinnacle of Spanish football — a goal that demands excellence both on and off the pitch.

According to multiple sources, Flick has implemented new rules that have already begun to shape the team’s daily routine. Chief among them is Flick's insistence that players arrive on time for every session. While the German coach stops short of imposing fines for tardiness, he has communicated that being every minute late is a sign of disrespect to the coaching staff and the entire squad.

In addition to requiring dental care for each squad member, Flick has mandated that every player weigh themselves before and after training. This routine is more than a simple check-in; it's part of a comprehensive system designed to track and maintain each player’s fitness.

Team physicians have set specific target weight ranges for each player, and those who drift too far from their designated zone could potentially find themselves in Flick's proverbial doghouse until they realign with the set standards. This approach underscores the coaching staff's commitment to ensuring every player is in optimal shape to compete at the highest level.

Additionally, Flick has introduced cryotherapy sessions following each training session, further promoting proper rest and recovery.

These new measures signal a clear shift in Barcelona’s preparation under Flick. The emphasis on fitness and recovery is not just about avoiding the pitfalls of last season but about building a foundation for sustained success. For Flick, these steps are not merely adjustments but ideological changes that will help restore Barcelona to its rightful place atop Spanish football.