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.”

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Hansi Flick: 'I promise we'll see a different Barça'

 

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.

 

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