When Real Madrid hosts Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu this Saturday, manager Hansi Flick will be facing his first-ever El Clasico.
After defeating Bayern Munich 4-1 in the UEFA Champions League earlier this week, Barça enter the match with a lot of confidence and energy.
Hansi Flick, the manager, is keen to fix one matter, though, as he feels it may expose his team to Real Madrid’s power.
In fact, despite the team’s thrilling triumph over Bayern Munich, SPORT reports that the Barcelona boss is trying to strengthen the defense before the pivotal game at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Flick has adopted his signature high-pressing approach since taking over at Camp Nou, which necessitates a strong push up from the defensive line.
Although this strategy has often worked well in La Liga, the Bayern game served as a warning about the hazards it could pose when up against superior competition.
According to the article, Flick was clearly worried about the gaps left by Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde, the full-backs, during the Champions League game.
There is concern that these defensive weaknesses would be especially troublesome when facing Real Madrid’s quick attackers.
When the German team easily broke through Barcelona’s defense and Harry Kane had a goal disallowed before scoring a valid one, Flick’s animated touchline presence during the Bayern game brought his worries to light.
Bayern was able to easily play out from the back and take advantage of the space behind both full-backs since the team’s pressure was insufficiently effective. Given the threat posed by Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe, this vulnerability might be especially difficult to overcome.
Given Rodrygo’s absence, Flick is especially worried about Real Madrid’s front two’s ability to move freely, with Mbappe and Vinicius perhaps switching wings whenever they choose.
The defense must be stronger than it was against Bayern, who, in spite of their subpar play, created a lot of opportunities.
In a match that might potentially decide the title between Barcelona and Real Madrid, the result of this tactical struggle could be crucial.
