Hansi Flick Can Equal Xavi: The Challenge in Madrid
FC Barcelona remains unstoppable in 2025, and this Sunday, they face a major challenge in La Liga. Opposite them is Atlético de Madrid led by Diego Simeone, in what promises to be an exciting high-stakes clash in the 28th round of the championship. Hansi Flick's team arrives at this match with a clear goal: to continue their unbeaten streak.
FC Barcelona's latest victory came last Tuesday in the Champions League, with a commanding 3-1 win over Benfica Lisbon at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís-Companys, thanks to standout performances from Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. This victory secured their qualification for the quarterfinals of the continental tournament, but it also reaffirmed their dominance in European football.
A challenge for Hansi Flick: the unbeaten streak
After securing their European future, FC Barcelona is focusing on La Liga, where a draw or victory against Atlético de Madrid would allow them to equal an incredible streak of 18 consecutive matches unbeaten. If they achieve this, Hansi Flick would match the mark set by Xavi Hernández during his time as coach of the club. Xavi achieved this record between October 2022 and February 2023, with 15 wins and 3 draws, leading the team to win the La Liga title that season.
However, Flick is still far from the absolute record, which belongs to Luis Enrique. The current coach of PSG holds the record for 39 unbeaten matches with FC Barcelona during the 2015-2016 season, with 32 wins and 7 draws. While the challenge of reaching that figure seems complicated, the German coach has everything to continue expanding his legacy at the club.
A motivated Atlético and the atmosphere at the Metropolitano
Atlético de Madrid, on the other hand, comes into this match after a painful elimination in the Champions League, where they were defeated by Real Madrid in a penalty shootout. This elimination has left Diego Simeone's team with a thirst for revenge, and the Metropolitano will be a fortress where they will give their all to stop the La Liga leaders.
This Sunday's match will be crucial not only for FC Barcelona but also for Atlético de Madrid, who are very close to catching up with the Catalans in the standings. Currently, Barcelona only has a one-point lead over the rojiblancos, who are also fighting for the league title.
If Hansi Flick manages to maintain his unbeaten streak and add another match without defeat, he will equal Xavi's mark, and FC Barcelona will continue consolidating its dominance under the German coach. However, the challenge in Madrid will be monumental, and Atlético de Madrid will not give any concessions on their home turf.