FC Barcelona is going through tough times. The defeat against Leganés (1-0) at Montjuïc marks the second consecutive stumble for Barça at home. This adds to the worrying inconsistency in LaLiga, where the blaugranas have managed to secure just five of the last 18 points available.
Amidst the sporting crisis, Barça's coach Hansi Flick has made a controversial decision after talking to Raphinha, the Brazilian winger.
Two Days of Rest for the Team
After the disappointing result against Leganés, Flick has granted the players two days of rest, a surprising gesture after the intense workload of recent weeks.
Last matchday, the team had no respite after their game against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, as they trained in Germany the following day.
However, this break hasn't been well received in some sectors of the club. Barça's president, Joan Laporta reportedly expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision. He considers it crucial to focus on overcoming the crisis in LaLiga, being tied with Atlético.
The Talk with Raphinha, Who was Key in the Decision
The rest granted by Flick is no coincidence. According to sources close to the locker room, the German coach had a private conversation with Raphinha after the game against Leganés. The Brazilian reportedly requested a break to regain freshness in a team plagued by injuries and fatigue.
Flick seems to have given importance to these words, aiming to protect the group before the crucial clash against Atlético de Madrid next Saturday. This duel will be key not only for Barça's league aspirations but also for the confidence of a team showing signs of wear.
Discontent in the Management
Flick's decision contrasts with the urgency for results at the club. The management, led by Laporta, expected stricter measures following recent poor results. The discontent not only lies in the days off but also in the perceived lack of immediate reaction to a delicate situation.
Barcelona, which led LaLiga in the early rounds, now finds itself in a dangerous position. With one match left to close the first half, Atlético and Real Madrid, with pending matches, can surpass Barça.
The Ultimate Test against Atlético
With Wednesday as the starting point for training, Flick will have few days to prepare for the clash against the Colchoneros. This match will be crucial not only for the standings but also to ease tensions within the club.
Saturday's result could determine whether confidence in Flick's project remains or if internal criticism gains more strength. One thing is clear: the margin for error is currently zero at Camp Nou.