The international break often serves as a reference point during the season, a moment to step back and assess what has gone right and what hasn’t. For Barcelona, this pause came at a time when the team hadn’t fully reached expectations, especially compared to last season’s stronger and more coherent start.
That feeling of uncertainty was amplified after the match against Club Brugge, where criticism of Hansi Flick’s tactical approach grew louder. It even led to a pointed question from a journalist, pressing him about the style of play he insists on. In that moment, doubts around the project felt heavier than ever.
Football changes quickly, though.
Barcelona’s last match, away at Celta Vigo, historically a stadium where Barça drop points, showed a different energy and the team excelled. The return of top scorer Robert Lewandowski and the creativity of Dani Olmo played a major role in restoring attacking rhythm.
The team looked sharper in possession, more purposeful in transitions, and showed signs that the attacking unit might be starting to click again.
Lamine Yamal benefited tremendously from the rest, and his return to full freshness adds a spark Barcelona desperately need on the right side. With Raphinha return getting closer and closer, Flick suddenly has more unpredictability, more 1v1 threat, and more balance in wide areas.
Barcelona have struggled at times to break defensive structures, and having both Yamal and Raphinha available brings back the verticality and variety that were missing.
Another major positive is the return of goalkeeper Joan García.
In his early appearances, he showed clear quality, composure, and the kind of projection that justified the club’s faith in pushing for his transfer. He still has development ahead, but the foundations are strong, and Barcelona finally look like they have a goalkeeper who can grow into a long-term solution.
His comeback will certainly aid the pressing and the high line as Garcia is considered a better shot stopper and a better player with the ball at his feet, something will improve the backline and add confidence.
Despite the improvements, one question remains unresolved: the defense.
With Iñigo Martínez gone, there is a visible gap not only in ability, but in leadership. Barcelona still appear to be missing a true defensive anchor, the kind of player who brings authority, calmness, and organization when matches become chaotic.
Until that role is filled, the team’s defensive consistency will continue to fluctuate.
Even with the concerns, there is a growing feeling that things are trending upward. Flick seems like a coach who evaluates every parameter, understands the nuances of each match, and adjusts rather than forcing rigid ideas. That adaptability is crucial as Barcelona try to rebuild confidence and identity.
The work isn’t finished, far from it. But for the first time in weeks, there is genuine optimism.
Barcelona leave the international break with fresh energy, clearer ideas, and the sense that the project is stabilizing. The path ahead may still be challenging, but there is light in the tunnel, and a real excitement about what the rest of the season might bring.