The Blaugrana, currently managed by ex-Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick, seem reinvigorated this season, scoring twenty one goals and conceding just two in the five games played in October. But it must be asked, is this magnificent momentum sustainable?
In theory, Barcelona are in very safe hands for the next decade.
It would be foolish to say no. The youth of the current side is certainly encouraging, with Yamal, who recently became the youngest ever winner of the Kopa Trophy and finished eighth in the Ballon d’Or, and Pau Cubarsi, a youngster who shows incredible maturity at just 17. Balde, Casado, Pedri and Fermín Lopez, to name a few, are just 21, regularly performing exceptionally and contributing to goals. Flick has combined youth and energy with maturity of some veterans like Iñigo Martínez (33) and Robert Lewandowski (36) creating a near-perfect synergy within the team. We could say that Barcelona are in very safe hands for the next decade.
Barça signed Dani Olmo for 55€ million this summer, who has scored 5 goals, the last one being against Espanyol. The Spain international also finished 13th in the Ballon d’Or, after having one season to remember.
Hansi Flick’s strengths are heartening too. With a previous record of 2.53 points per game whilst managing Bayern and an electric style of play already installed in the team, fans can feel confident in their coach’s ability. So, what actually stands in Barça’s way from winning it all?
The club’s financial situation is precarious to say the least. This has impacted their activity in the transfer market until they can reach their league-imposed spending cap, which they currently exceed by over €200 million. This puts them at a significant disadvantage compared to main challengers of Real Madrid, especially when we look at Los Blancos’ recent activity in the market, spending a casual €120 million on Jude Bellingham.
Another issue Barcelona could face is an injury crisis. With big names like Ferran Torres, Ronald Araújo, and Ter Stegen are currently injured, so any more to be ruled out could result in a big problem for the club. The fact Barça are still in contention for all three domestic competitions, plus the Champions League does increase the risk of further injury struggles.
At the end of the day, football is football; anything could happen. Should Barcelona continue building on this momentum, however, they will be an unstoppable force. They are certainly capable of winning it all ,and Flick’s legacy could well be that of greatness.