Coach HansiFlick has tried a new defensive formation during training prior to the match against Alavés, suggesting that Barcelona are willing to modify their scheme after the two defeats against PSG and Real Madrid. Although Saturday's match at the CampNou could continue with the same lineup it has been using, the club's management recognizes the need for adjustments to compete at the level of the most important titles.
Barcelona has not built a squad that allows it to “walk at home”, and the lack of a solid center forward has become evident. Flick and the coaching staff are evaluating the incorporation of a central defender, possibly also a winger, to reinforce the defensive zone. President JoanLaporta, who in the past stated that the decisive match was PSG's and that he trusted the decisions made in the summer, is now more determined to avoid surprises and to look for a competitive team when the big trophies are contested.
The club does not intend to rush its signings, but the pressure of the season demands a quick response. Flick and his team must decide how to evolve the system to adapt it to different game situations. Barcelona have shown a spectacular level of football, but the need to protect themselves in the final moments of critical matches has become clearer.
Despite the absence of a game crisis, the club is willing to introduce changes that improve its performance in the most demanding matches. Barça remains the team that has played the best football in LaLiga, but Flick appears to be taking steps to ensure the team remains competitive in the most important matchups. With the season still underway, the next step will be to determine the magnitude of the changes and how the new players will be integrated into the roster.