Hansi Flick Has Spoken Clearly. The German coach of FC Barcelona hasn't avoided self-criticism and has admitted that the team wasn't up to par in their last match against Inter Milan. The coach has acknowledged tactical errors and decisions that didn't work, especially regarding the left flank, where Gerard Martín didn't meet expectations.
The Young Left-Back, a Youth Product Trained at UE Cornellà and with Experience at La Masia, Was Chosen to Replace Alejandro Balde, who is injured. However, the scenario was too demanding for the debutant in high-pressure matches. The player was outperformed in several key actions, and his lack of experience was noticeable from the start of the match.
Hans Dieter Flick Doubts Whether He Will Field Gerard Martín Against Inter Again. Although he hasn't pointed him out directly, the coach has hinted that the young defender isn't ready yet for challenges of this caliber. With Balde still out of action, the German is considering new options to cover the left flank.
Possible Lineup
One of the Alternatives Considered by the Coaching Staff Is to Completely Modify the Defensive Line. Flick is contemplating forming with 4 men at the back, using Cubarsi, Iñigo Martínez, Ronald Araújo, and Christensen. This would allow compensating for the absence of a pure left-back with a more solid defensive system and greater physical presence.
The Barça Coach Doesn't Want to Repeat Mistakes, in the Post-Match Press Conference, Flick Emphasized That He Can't Afford to "Give an Advantage in Any Sector of the Field." Although he avoided confirming names, he made it clear that he's willing to make significant adjustments if that guarantees competitiveness at San Siro. A Change of System Is Something He Has Evaluated in Recent Practices Ahead of the Clash in Italy.
Balde's Absence Adjusts the System
Additionally, there's the possibility of moving back a left-footed midfielder or winger to act as a wing-back. Alejandro Balde Is Still Not Available, So Players Like Andreas Christensen or Even Iñigo Martínez Could Occupy That Position If a Four-Man Defense Is Chosen. Everything will depend on the tactical setup and the opponent they face.
Hansi Flick Is Aware of the Magnitude of the Challenge, Inter Has Already Proven to Be a Compact, Intense Team with Lethal Transitions. In that context, any imbalance can be decisive, which is why the coach will keep his cards close to his chest until the last moment. He doesn't want to give clues to the Italian team, who already knew how to exploit the blaugrana weaknesses well in the first match.
Barcelona Fans Expect a Reaction, the Pressure on the Team and the Coach Has Increased After the Defeat. It's not just about advancing in Europe, but also about regaining sensations, confidence, and defensive solidity. The message is clear: the same mistakes can't be made, everything points to Flick presenting a more pragmatic version of Barça.