Hansi Flick plans Barcelona reset after PSG and Real Madrid defeats deepen injury crisis

Hansi Flick plans Barcelona reset after PSG and Real Madrid defeats deepen injury crisis Barcelona manager Hansi Flick wants his players to recover physically and mentally after consecutive defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, according to a report from SPORT .  Rather than immediately launching into an intensive tactical review, the German coach is prioritising rest, nutrition and a chance to disconnect before Barcelona resume their work on the training ground. The outlet mentions that Flick gathered his players shortly after the El Clasico defeat and believes restoring their freshness is the first step towards getting Barcelona back on track.  However, the club’s growing injury problems, particularly in defence, continue to complicate his plans. Flick prioritises rest before Barcelona tactical review Notably, Flick has instructed his players to follow their dietary guidelines carefully and make the most of the opportunity to switch off from football.  The Barcelona manager believes the squad needs a proper reset after a difficult spell that has included defeats against PSG and Real Madrid. Xavi Espart was injured against Real Madrid. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) The plan also extends to Flick and his coaching staff, who are expected to benefit from stepping away from the immediate pressure before turning their attention to the team’s shortcomings. The Ballon d’Or ceremony presents a slight complication, as Lamine Yamal, Joan Garcia and Rodri are expected to travel , and Flick hopes they will also be able to disconnect from the demands surrounding the team before returning refreshed. From Wednesday onwards, the focus is expected to shift towards detailed discussions about Barcelona’s tactical organisation and on-pitch performances.  Barcelona injury crisis leaves Flick short of defensive options Finding solutions to Barcelona’s injury problems is proving more difficult.  This is because Flick believes many injuries, including the latest setback involving Xavi Espart , have resulted from physical knocks rather than inadequate preparation. That is crucial because it limits how much the coaching staff can realistically prevent through training adjustments alone. Flick is running short of options in defence. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) The defensive department has been particularly affected, leaving Flick with fewer established options as Barcelona attempt to recover from their recent defeats.  The manager has already acknowledged publicly that the squad’s available choices in those positions are limited. La Masia youngsters could receive more opportunities Barcelona’s academy is therefore becoming increasingly important as Flick manages the injury situation.  Against Real Madrid, centre-back Alex Campos featured, while Orien Goren, a midfielder, was also involved amid Dani Olmo’s absence. Further opportunities for La Masia players could follow this week as Barcelona look to go through their depleted squad. Flick’s priority is to restore the team’s physical and mental sharpness before making tactical adjustments. But with injuries continuing to restrict his defensive options, the manager will have to find a way to work with a relatively short squad.