On January 29 local time, Pitu Abril, a journalist from Sport, argued that a football team needs two crucial types of figures: role models and leaders. Raphinha has become Barcelona’s recognized role model thanks to his goals, attitude and commitment, yet the identity of the team’s genuine leader remains in doubt. Pedri is the tactical core of the side, but does not necessarily possess the authority of a spiritual leader. In contrast, Flick is the undisputed leader in the dressing room, having earned respect through his rational and efficient management.
What follows are the views of him.
Ángel Gómez, a coach, sports psychologist and a friend of mine, once told me: there are two vital types of people in a team—leaders and role models.
It is crystal clear who the role model is. That is Raphinha. He has earned this status not only for scoring goals for Barcelona, but also for his work ethic and dedication to the club. Raphinha is one of the team’s captains.
But the question remains: among the other captains, does a genuine “leader” truly exist? With Ter Stegen sidelined, the remaining captains include De Jong, Araújo and Pedri.
Without a doubt, Pedri is Barcelona’s on-pitch core and the team’s “leader in terms of playing ability”, thanks to his extraordinary individual talent. But is he also the team’s real spiritual leader? Is he the player who can establish authority within the squad and project presence against opponents? That remains to be seen.
One thing is beyond dispute: the real leader in Barcelona’s dressing room is Hansi Flick.
The German manager has won the respect of his players through exemplary management, both on and off the pitch.
We witnessed this not long ago. After Yamal scored a spectacular goal, Flick did not lavish praise on him. He knew full well that excessive compliments can hinder a player’s development. Rather than focusing on the stunning strike against Oviedo, Flick emphasized Yamal’s defensive contributions, his high pressing on the opposition goalkeeper, and how that pressing directly led to Barcelona’s opening goal.
Of course, like everyone else, Flick is not without weaknesses. I even suspect his soft spots are Fermín and Gavi, two incredibly hard-working players. Interestingly enough, I have long believed both players were underestimated by some fans at certain stages.