Barcelona’s 2-2 draw with Celta Vigo left a significant impact in the dressing room, as coach Hansi Flick expressed deep frustration with the performance and attitude of certain players.
The German coach was visibly upset by both the mistakes on the field and a noticeable lack of commitment, which contributed to the team’s struggles at Balaídos Stadium.
According to reports from El Nacional, Gerard Martín, who filled in at left-back due to Alejandro Balde’s injury, was one of the main targets of Flick’s criticism. Martín’s defensive shortcomings were evident, leaving the left flank exposed and allowing Celta Vigo’s wingers to exploit gaps.
Flick’s concerns about Martín’s abilities had reportedly been growing before the match, and the performance in Vigo seems to have confirmed his doubts. Moving forward, Martín’s role in the squad is expected to diminish significantly, with minimal or no participation in upcoming games.
The situation surrounding Frenkie de Jong is more complex. The Dutch midfielder, introduced as a substitute when Barcelona was leading 2-0, made a poor impression with what Flick perceived as a lack of effort.
Sources within the club reveal that Flick’s disappointment with De Jong has been building in recent weeks due to subpar performances and a perceived lack of commitment to the team’s objectives.
The German coach has reportedly decided to drop De Jong from the starting lineup for future matches, emphasizing the need for the player to prove his dedication and earn back his place.
Flick has sent a strong message: performance and dedication will be prioritized over reputation. While young players like Gavi and Marc Casado are consistently giving their all, others have fallen short of expectations.
Flick’s intolerance for complacency is shaping his decisions, and with the winter transfer window approaching, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco is likely to explore reinforcements, particularly for the left-back position.
This decisive approach underscores Flick’s commitment to reshaping the team’s culture and ensuring that every player contributes to the collective goal.
His stance serves as a warning that subpar efforts, regardless of a player’s stature, will not be tolerated as Barcelona continues to strive for success.
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