Flick and his team will arrive at Bernabéu with an open wound after the painful elimination against Inter Milan. Far from being discouraged, the team wants to respond with pride, character, and soccer to secure one of the most important victories of the season.
FC Barcelona plays for LaLiga this Sunday at Estadi Olímpic. An immediate response that can confirm the group's mental strength after the European blow. The locker room is focused, but there are already pending tasks in the office.
A decisive match that doesn't hide the problems
El Clásico promises to be thrilling, with Lamine Yamal once again as the main protagonist. His dribbling and bravery are key, and his influence in the attack can make a difference.
But not everything is certain, the team suffered a lot in defense in the last matches. Flick arrives at the duel more worried than satisfied with the performance of his defensive line. There are names that no longer offer guarantees.
Gerard Martín hasn't lived up to what was expected in matches of this caliber. He has lacked hierarchy, anticipation, and decisiveness. Araújo, coming from a highly questioned performance in San Siro, also fails to redeem himself.
Defense, Flick's great urgency for the summer
In the offices, they are already openly talking about changes in the defense. The German coach has been clear: if Barça wants to compete for the Champions next year, it needs more reliability at the back.
Ronald Araújo, despite his recent renewal, has a clause of 65 million. The board wouldn't look unfavorably on his departure if a good offer comes. Teams like Bayern, Chelsea, or United have already shown interest.
Gerard Martín, meanwhile, will keep growing, but he isn't ready to be a starter on the big stages. The idea is to look for an immediate alternative that can strengthen Flick's system without the need for large expenditures.
The solution may be at home
Amid so many doubts, good news has appeared on the horizon: Landry Farré has made the leap to the first team and will be the big novelty for El Clásico. The young left-back has convinced Flick and will be part of the squad to face Real Madrid in Montjuïc.
Flick trusts him as a key tactical resource. His speed, power, and ability to correct defensive situations make him a very valuable piece. Although his natural role is the left flank, it is not ruled out that he could act as a center-back in a three-man defense.
His inclusion in the first team represents an "unexpected" but essential 'signing'. It would allow reorganizing the defense, giving rest to overworked players, and strengthening the ball's exit from the back.
Barça has the chance to close LaLiga, but the demand doesn't stop. Flick and Laporta are already planning the next season. The priority is clear: strengthen the defense.
With Lamine Yamal as an emblem and Farré in full emergence, the club has solid pillars. But to fight for everything, brave decisions are needed. El Clásico will be key, and then, it's time to aim for Europe.