On 25 November, at Stamford Bridge, Barça were beaten 3–0 by Chelsea in the league phase of the Champions League. The crushing defeat proved to be a turning point in the team’s season. In the press room afterwards, Hansi Flick delivered a message that, as the weeks have passed, has come to sound very much like a prophecy.
“You’ll see a different Barça. That’s what I can promise,” said the German coach. “I see how we train. I see the quality and the intensity, and it’s completely different to six weeks ago. Some players are coming back from injury and have raised the level, and I have a very good feeling. I’m positive about the future.”
Since then, Flick’s words have been backed up by results. Barça have now put together seven straight wins in seven matches, all with a common thread: two or more goals scored in every game, a clear sign of the team’s growing solidity and attacking ambition.
The winning run began with a 3–1 victory over Alavés, followed by a statement 3-1 win against Atlético Madrid. The team showed character and firepower in a thrilling 5-3 win over Betis at La Cartuja, before also seeing off Eintracht 2–1 in Europe. Osasuna, Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey and Villarreal have been the latest victims, all be a scoreline of 2-0, of a Barça clearly on the up.
Beyond the results, the side is showing renewed belief and a collective confidence that reinforces Flick’s vision from day one. Six weeks on from that night in London, this is a different Barça. The prophecy has been fulfilled. And the immediate future gives every reason to keep believing.