Barcelona boss demands self reflection from squad after Cubarsi red card drama | OneFootball

According to a recent report from SPORT, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has stressed the need for self-reflection following Pau Cubarsi’s sending-off against Benfica.

The coaching staff believes the team must develop a stronger mentality in certain situations to compete at the highest level.

Flick was pleased with the performance his team displayed against Benfica. However, that did not prevent him from analysing areas that require improvement.

He remains committed to refining details that can make a crucial difference, particularly in high-stakes competitions like the Champions League.

While some aspects of the game are beyond control, the staff is determined to reduce avoidable mistakes as much as possible.

Urging to step up

One key incident under review is the sequence that led to Cubarsi’s dismissal. Flick has full confidence in the young defender and offered him his support, but he also believes the team must respond with greater authority in critical moments.

The manager has emphasised the need for the squad to be more assertive when managing difficult situations on the pitch.

Flick wants his players to step up. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

Barcelona showed better composure in the closing stages against Benfica compared to their previous match against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey.

In that encounter, despite leading 4-2 with just six minutes left, they allowed their opponents to level the score.

Having more control

Flick later reflected on the way his team approached that phase of the game and acknowledged that some adjustments in the final minutes could have helped secure the victory.

Rather than focusing solely on individual errors, the coach has urged the team to control the tempo of matches more effectively.

This includes maintaining longer spells of possession and making tactical decisions that prevent opponents from gaining momentum late in games.

With the Champions League knockout rounds approaching, Flick is determined to fine-tune these aspects to ensure his team is better prepared for crucial moments.