The unexpected defeat against Leganés hasn’t shaken Hansi Flick’s resolve. The FC Barcelona coach has decided not to alter this week’s schedule, sticking to his pre-planned strategy to give his squad a much-needed breather. With no midweek matches on the calendar, the team will only resume training on Wednesday to prepare for Saturday's crucial clash against Atlético Madrid in Montjuïc.

Prioritizing Recovery

The decision reflects Flick’s assessment, alongside his staff, that the players are in dire need of rest. The team hasn’t had a day off since the last international break in November, navigating a relentless schedule. Flick believes this brief pause will allow his squad to recharge both physically and mentally ahead of the high-stakes encounter, which could determine the La Liga leadership.

Despite the sting of the defeat to Leganés, Flick remains unwavering in his approach. The two-day break is seen as essential, not a concession. The hope is that stepping away from the pitch will provide the players with renewed focus and energy.

Reflecting on the Leganés Loss

Flick and his coaching staff have no doubts about the team’s commitment. Against Leganés, the players gave their all, yet seemed to hit a mental and tactical wall, unable to break down the defensive resilience of the visitors. The loss was a blow, but not one that Flick sees as insurmountable.

Barcelona will now look to bounce back with a decisive performance against Atlético Madrid. Both teams are currently tied at the top of the league table, with Barça holding the edge due to a superior goal difference. Meanwhile, Real Madrid sits just one point behind, with a game in hand against Valencia still pending.

A Busy January Awaits

The schedule will only get tougher after this critical weekend fixture. Following the game against Atlético, Barça will break briefly for the holidays before diving into a packed January. The team kicks off the new year with a Copa del Rey match in Barbastro on January 4, followed by a trip to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup, where they face Athletic Bilbao in the semifinals on January 8.

Trusting the Process

Hansi Flick, known for his meticulous planning, is not one to overreact to a single result. The two-day hiatus had been mapped out long before the Leganés loss and will go ahead as planned. Flick trusts that the break will provide the team with the opportunity to reset and come back reinvigorated, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.

For Barça, the clash against Atlético Madrid now carries immense weight, with Flick banking on a fresh and focused squad to secure a vital victory and regain momentum in their pursuit of glory this season.