Barcelona’s dream start to the season under new manager Hansi Flick has taken a troubling turn as their once-commanding lead in LaLiga narrows.
After winning 11 of their first 12 games, including a remarkable 4-0 thrashing of rivals Real Madrid, Barcelona now finds itself struggling with form, earning just one point from their last three matches.
This dip began with a 1-0 defeat to Real Sociedad, followed by a frustrating 2-2 draw at Celta Vigo, where Barcelona squandered a two-goal lead.
The low point came with a shocking 2-1 loss at home to Las Palmas, a team that arrived at Camp Nou deep in the relegation zone.
What was once a comfortable nine-point lead has dwindled to just one, with Real Madrid lurking close behind and holding a game in hand.
Ahead of their crucial clash against Mallorca, Flick addressed the team’s scoring woes and lack of sharpness in recent matches.
“November is behind us, and that’s the good news,” Flick said in a press conference. “We’ve been disciplined and intense in midfield, creating opportunities, but goals are what count. We must be more clinical.”
Flick dismissed concerns over the players’ commitment, emphasizing instead the need for focus and cohesion.
“We’re a young team that must learn to fight for victories. Defensively, we need to tighten up as a unit. Offensively, we need to capitalize on our chances. The league title is still within reach, but it requires a collective effort.”
Despite the setbacks, Flick highlighted individual performances, such as Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez’s solid defending and Pedri’s relentless work rate in midfield.
He remains optimistic but knows the margin for error is razor-thin as the team aims to return to winning ways.
Tuesday’s match against Mallorca will be a pivotal test for Barcelona’s resolve as they strive to stay ahead in the title race.