In the last few hours, Frankie De Jong, who didn't play against Atlético, and Robert Lewandowski have been the focus of criticism from the Barcelona media environment.
They are the main ones blamed for the crisis in playing and results that is affecting Barça. However, they're not the only ones and Hansi Flick knows this very well.
Flick Considers Giving Cubarsí Some Rest and Bringing in Araújo
"It's unacceptable that they reach us twice and score each time." The phrase is from Pau Cubarsí at the end of Barça's debacle against Atlético de Madrid (2-1).
However, Cubarsí is not without fault. His performance has dropped in recent matches and Flick is tempted to give him a rest to place Ronald Araújo in his position.
However, it's not Cubarsí who worries Hansi Flick the most, but Alejandro Balde.
What's Happening with Alejandro Balde?
The German coach had seen him with Barça and the Spanish national team. He arrived at Camp Nou convinced that he had a left-back for years with Balde.
However, the reality was very different. Balde is not performing as in previous seasons. His mistakes—against Atlético de Madrid, for example—had a lot to do with Barça's defeat.
Balde performs very well when joining the attack, but defensively he shows very concerning gaps. Flick doesn't understand how he was outplayed by Nahuel Molina and allowed the cross that led to Atlético's victory in Montjuic.
Deco Works on Two Additions
The problem is that this is a recurring issue. Flick has already insisted many times on this topic, but the problem keeps repeating game after game. Lack of concentration?
Deco already knows. Flick has many doubts about his defense, especially with the full-backs. Neither Koundé nor Balde have alternatives that allow them to be benched.
Deco is already working on finding the solution: João Cancelo has offered to return.
Deco is trying to change the course of Alphonso Davies's future and bring him to the blaugrana cause. Both options, especially the latter, appeal to Flick.
What is certain is that neither Héctor Fort nor Gerard Martín are confirmed as valid alternatives to the two starting full-backs. Barça has a leak there that must be solved as soon as possible.
Although the club's treasury doesn't allow for much. Davies could arrive at zero cost.Cancelo, on the other hand, would require a transfer to leave Arab Al-Hilal.
However, with Jorge Mendes involved, anything is possible.