Hansi Flick has managed to consolidate a winning project at Camp Nou, but he has also caused tensions in the locker room. Although the results remain good, there are at least two players who are going through a delicate situation. Their happiness within the team could end up exploding if something doesn't change soon.
These two figures feel pressured, aware that their margin for error on the field has drastically decreased. Flick, strict in his principles, gives no respite. This scenario threatens to break the apparent harmony that prevails in Barça's locker room.
Koundé, out of the starting eleven for tardiness
Jules Koundé has been relegated to the background. The reason, according to club sources, has had more to do with internal discipline than with strictly technical criteria. The Frenchman arrived late to a meeting before a match and Flick, true to his hardline rule, took away his starting spot.
This measure has heated up the atmosphere and has caused questions about how hierarchy and commitment are managed in the locker room.
Dani Olmo, pointed out after repeated mistakes
Dani Olmo's case has also caused concern. According to internal sources, his performance has been inconsistent, and some mistakes compromised recent results. Flick didn't hide his discomfort: he asked for more responsibility from a player who, in theory, should make a difference.
Tension is rising, and under these conditions it's not unreasonable to think that the striker is reconsidering his role or his future if he doesn't find continuity and security in the starting eleven.
Flick pushes to keep cohesion
The German coach is hitting where it hurts to preserve cohesion. His style is demanding: he imposes firmness when he detects demotivation or indiscipline.
The strategy is clear: everyone must be clear about what's expected of them. That, however, could end up taking its toll if taken to the extreme.
He has a squad with talent and options; his challenge is to manage it without causing ruptures. The margin is narrow and, if they don't wake up, these two players could end up being victims of their own mistakes or of drastic tactical decisions.
The challenge of keeping the peace
Work, control, and leadership. Flick knows that his project is sustained thanks to group balance.
That balance is at risk if players like Koundé and Olmo lose ground quickly. They are key pieces, but their future depends on urgent adaptation.
The coach is betting on consistent results, but if he doesn't manage to reconnect with them, peace could be broken. Barça needs their best version, and only time will tell if Flick manages to restore the harmony that was a trademark last season.