The Record Flick is Chasing: Guardiola Couldn’t Achieve It
The German coach has led Barcelona to a strong start with four wins from four games. Here’s what he needs to achieve the best start.
The Hansi Flick era at FC Barcelona could not have started more promisingly. With four victories in as many games, the team has accumulated 12 points out of 12 and sits atop LaLiga.
So far, Barcelona's performance has been impeccable, with 13 goals scored and only three conceded, marking the beginning of a promising new phase under the German coach. The recent 7-0 thrashing of Real Valladolid has seen Robert Lewandowski emerge as the top scorer in the Spanish league, with four goals, surpassing his teammate Raphinha, who has three.
A Challenging Record to Surpass
The German coach has exceeded initial expectations. Without the need for flashy tactics or spectacular play, Flick has made Barcelona appear solid and effective, particularly in defense. Dani Olmo, who has arrived in excellent form following his standout Euro performance, has proven to be a valuable asset and is aiming to secure a place in the starting eleven.
Flick, who has already achieved a perfect record, now sets his sights on a benchmark established by Tata Martino during the 2013-2014 season. Back then, Barcelona, led by Lionel Messi, began the league with eight consecutive victories. Flick's challenge will be to match this record in the next four matches and surpass it in the ninth round.
The Tough Road Ahead
However, the Barcelona schedule presents significant challenges. In the upcoming match, the team will face Girona at Montilivi, followed by an away game against Villarreal and a home fixture against Getafe. To equal and surpass Martino's record, Barcelona will need to win their eighth-round match at El Sadar and then overcome Deportivo Alavés in October.
Robert Lewandowski will be a crucial factor in this endeavor. At 36 years old, the Polish striker, who is starting his third season with Barcelona, is demonstrating his ability to make a difference. With four goals in the first four LaLiga matches, Lewandowski is positioned as one of the leading contenders for the Pichichi trophy, awarded to the league's top scorer.