Flick Implements Special Fitness Plan Post-World Cup

Hans Flick is keen on managing the minutes of Barcelona players carefully at the start of the season, especially after a summer that saw the World Cup take place, with the aim of maintaining their physical readiness and ensuring they reach the crucial stages of the season in the best possible condition.

According to Spanish newspaper "Mundo Deportivo", Flick relies on precise workload calculations, aided by German fitness coach Benjamin Kogel, who joined Barcelona this summer at the coach's request. The coaching staff is considering the varying levels of fatigue experienced by international players during the World Cup.

This policy is evident in the handling of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, as Flick substituted Yamal in the 65th minute against Elche, while Raphinha left the pitch in the 63rd minute against Bilbao, despite the match still being open. This is part of a strategy for managing physical loads.

After two rounds of La Liga, only four players have played all 180 minutes: Juan Garcia, Gerard Martin, Xavi Esparter, and Fermín López. The latter trio had started their pre-season preparations, while Esparter received a few days of rest before the England camp, following his triumph in the UEFA Under-19 Championship.

Eric Garcia leads the way with 170 minutes played, followed by Lamine Yamal with 155 minutes. Raphinha and Marc Bernal each have 143 minutes, while Pedri Gonzalez has 130 minutes. Anthony Gordon has played 105 minutes, and both Christensen and Pau Koubarsi have 90 minutes each.

Dani Olmo is receiving special attention after participating for just 52 minutes in the league, following his 465 minutes with Spain in the World Cup. So far, 18 players from Barcelona have participated in the league, while Balde remains the only first-team player who has not featured in the competition.