FC Barcelona finds its new backbone under Flick

FC Barcelona has renewed the backbone of the team this season, reflecting its stability during a strong start. According to "Mundo Deportivo", the collective structure has become more balanced, giving talented players more space to make a difference.

FC Barcelona's new backbone features Juan, Kobarsi, Rodri, and Raphinha as key elements ensuring the team's balance. Juan has delivered impressive performances, while Kobarsi has become more reliable thanks to his experience and physical maturity.

Rodri represents the most prominent balancing element in midfield, thanks to his role in pressing, his strength in duels, and his ability to make decisions and move the ball quickly and without risk, while maintaining team cohesion and avoiding losing possession.

Raphinha leads the press from the front line and constantly moves behind the defense, while also having a strong presence in front of goal. The Brazilian has scored 8 goals from 13 shots, including 12 on target and one that hit the post.

The Spanish newspaper sees that this collective cohesion, along with the effectiveness provided by the supporting players, gives Fermín, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri more space to make a difference and change the course of matches.

The transition of wingers to a central striker role has become a successful trend in football recently, as Luis Enrique succeeded with Ousmane Dembélé, and now Flick is repeating the experiment with Raphinha, who has scored 8 goals in five matches.

In contrast, Malin shines with AS Roma under Gasperini, having scored 20 goals in 22 matches since his arrival in the winter from Aston Villa, along with five goals in three rounds of the domestic league.

Malin also possesses the ability to move into space, choose the timing of his runs, and simplify the finishing process, showcasing dynamism and speed as alternatives to the traditional striker.