Barcelona’s preparations for their crucial UEFA Champions League clash against Club Brugge have taken an unexpected turn, with manager Hansi Flick making a strategic adjustment to the team’s schedule.
As reported before, instead of holding the final training session in Belgium, the German decided to keep the last workout at Barcelona’s own facilities.
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This is because the manager intends to maintain full control of the environment and ensure the players remain focused and comfortable before such a decisive fixture.
Flick’s participation in the training
Now, according to SPORT, Flick was unusually active, vocal and hands-on during the session.
The Barcelona manager was seen interacting frequently with his first-team regulars, displaying a more open and approachable side.
Before stepping onto the pitch, Flick held a detailed 20-minute tactical briefing inside the dugout, which was a discussion believed to revolve around pressing structure and attacking transitions.
Hansi Flick held a conversation with several first-team players. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
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Once the players hit the turf, Flick wasted no time engaging in one-on-one talks. He was spotted conversing intently with Robert Lewandowski and Wojciech Szczesny, checking on their mindset and readiness ahead of the match.
It is understood that Flick wanted to gauge their confidence and emotional balance, knowing how critical leadership and composure will be in a high-stakes European tie.
Talks with Rashford and Lamine
The coach also shared a few words with Marcus Rashford, eager to understand how the English forward was feeling heading into the clash.
Meanwhile, young prodigy Lamine Yamal was once again the centre of light-hearted attention.
Flick was seen joking with the teenager in a cheerful, relaxed tone. The 18-year-old appeared upbeat and at ease, which is an encouraging sign that his pubic discomforts could be well behind him.