Barcelona’s 2025/26 campaign has started far below expectations, with Hansi Flick’s side showing worrying signs of decline just nine games into the new La Liga season.
After a stunning debut year that saw Flick guide Barça to a domestic treble, fans expected another dominant season.
Instead, performances have dipped sharply, and the numbers back that up, reports Barca Universal.
Barcelona ranked fifth in La Liga last season for distance covered, averaging 117.4 kilometres per game — well above the league average.
Flick’s high-intensity pressing and tireless movement were key to their success.
This season tells a different story. Barça have slipped to 15th in the league for distance covered, averaging just 113.4 kilometres per match — nearly four kilometres less than last season.
Energy Drop Exposes Tactical Weakness
That decline reflects more than just fatigue; it shows a visible drop in work rate and urgency.
Rivals like Atletico Madrid are averaging over 120 kilometres per game, while even smaller clubs such as Espanyol and Celta outwork the Catalans.
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The data also reveals fewer high-intensity sprints, especially in the crucial 21–24 km/h range. Players are covering less ground and finding it harder to press or break forward with pace.
Flick’s trademark system, built on energy and control, appears to be losing its edge. Unless Barcelona rediscover their intensity soon, their hopes of another La Liga title could fade fast.
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