Since Hansi Flick’s arrival, Barcelona have reworked into a world powerhouse, propelling Lamine Yamal and Raphinha to elite standing among the many world’s greatest gamers. Furthermore, Flick’s implementation of a fascinating, dynamic type of play has captivated audiences worldwide. Nonetheless, Actual Madrid legend Toni Kroos didn’t maintain again his criticism, clearly voicing clear stance.
“Barcelona have one of the crucial enticing kinds of play in Europe… I additionally suppose that Barcelona takes so many dangers… On a foul day for Pedri, Lamine Yamal, or Raphinha, any staff can harm them and knock them out of the Champions League. It occurred to them final yr with Inter Milan, and this yr, whether or not within the spherical of 16, the quarterfinals, the semifinals, or the ultimate, in some unspecified time in the future they’ll face an opponent like that,” Toni Kroos mentioned, by way of Einfach mal Luppen podcast.
Though Toni Kroos’s pointed remarks might sound harsh, they precisely seize Barcelona’s struggles lately. Regardless of having world-class expertise, the Culers haven’t reached a UEFA Champions League closing since their 2014-15 triumph. Even, their greatest efficiency prior to now seven seasons got here final yr once they superior to the semifinals, solely to be ousted by Inter Milan.
Barcelona grapple with defensive vulnerabilities, in contrast to powerhouses like Manchester Metropolis, Actual Madrid, or Inter Milan, steadily getting outmatched by opponents. Offensively, they’re nonetheless a pressure, however their imbalance hinders their continental impression. For the 2025-26 season, head coach Hansi Flick has embraced a high-press technique, which, as PSG just lately demonstrated, would possibly exacerbate their defensive woes moderately than alleviate them.
Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona reacts in a UEFA Champions League recreation.
Barcelona face defensive issues in 2025-26 following key participant departure
All through this switch window, Barcelona actively bolstered their squad by addressing vital positions. Joan Garcia joined as the brand new goalkeeper, whereas Marcus Rashford and Roony Bardghji enhanced the membership’s attacking prowess. Regardless of these offensive features, the Culers uncared for to strengthen their protection and suffered a setback by dropping a key participant who offered essential stability to the staff.
see additionally
Kylian Mbappe sparks recent membership vs. nation debate after Lamine Yamal controversy: Actual Madrid and France at odds after star’s newest harm
In a stunning shift, key Barcelona defender Iñigo Martinez opted to depart in direction of Al Nassr, describing it as a singular alternative. Regardless of this, the Culers selected to not search replacements, relying as an alternative on Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen to step up and fortify the backline alongside promising expertise Pau Cubarsi.
Nonetheless, Araujo and Christensen have struggled to make a major impression, steadily outmaneuvered by their opponents. Surprisingly, Eric Garcia has emerged as a standout performer alongside Cubarsi. Regardless of Garcia’s commendable efforts, the defensive cohesion seen with Martinez is missing, leaving the protection extra susceptible than even the earlier season’s already fragile lineup.
