Barcelona secured the Spanish league title for the 28th time on Thursday, their second in six years, after beating Espanyol 2-0 with two games remaining. Under German coach Hansi Flick, the Catalan giants reclaimed the crown from rivals Real Madrid through a combination of thrilling attack, strong mentality, and tactical improvements.
Flick’s team scored 97 goals in 36 games—23 more than second-placed Real Madrid. Their attacking prowess was evident from a 7-0 win over Valladolid early in the season and 13 matches where they scored four or more goals. Young star Lamine Yamal, just 17, led with 13 assists, feeding striker Robert Lewandowski, who netted 25 goals, and winger Raphinha, who contributed 18 goals and nine assists. Flick’s use of a high defensive line has pressured opponents effectively, including limiting Real Madrid’s possession during last weekend’s Clasico.
Mentally, Flick instilled a winning mindset that contrasts with last season’s excuses under Xavi Hernandez. The team showed resilience with several comebacks, most notably overturning a two-goal deficit to beat Real Madrid 4-3 in May’s Clasico. Flick praised his squad’s mentality and focus on enjoying their play rather than being burdened by expectations.
Midfielder Pedri Gonzalez emerged as a crucial figure, maintaining fitness throughout the season and serving as the team’s creative and defensive engine. Arsene Wenger praised Pedri as “absolutely incredible,” highlighting his importance to Barcelona’s fluid style, especially without a holding midfielder due to injuries.
Flick also improved squad fitness and confidence by trusting players who struggled previously. Eric Garcia impressed as a versatile centre-back, Ferran Torres provided key attacking support, and Inigo Martinez became a defensive leader alongside young Pau Cubarsi.
Despite a slump during November and December, where Barcelona won just once in seven matches and briefly lost top spot to Atletico Madrid, Flick’s adjustments—like deploying Frenkie de Jong and goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny—sparked a 24-match unbeaten run. This resurgence ultimately propelled Barcelona to reclaim the Spanish league title.
