Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has identified a lack of defensive discipline and poor transitional play as the reasons behind his team’s 2-1 defeat to Girona on Monday night. The Catalan side failed to reclaim the top spot in La Liga as the hosts staged a dramatic second-half comeback at the Estadi Montilivi. Despite Pau Cubarsí’s opening header in the 59th minute, Barcelona’s lead vanished within three minutes, eventually culminating in a late strike from Fran Beltrán that condemned the visitors to their second consecutive loss across all competitions.
During a candid post-match media session, Flick expressed his frustration with how easily Girona bypassed his team’s high defensive line. The German tactician noted that while his squad created numerous opportunities in the first half—including a missed penalty from Lamine Yamal—they lacked the clinical edge and hunger required to kill off the game. This result leaves the Blaugrana in second place, trailing rivals Real Madrid by two points after Matchday 24.
“We defended very poorly, especially in transition. We weren’t well-positioned and struggled to withstand Girona’s attacks,” Flick said. “We needed more control and fewer mistakes. In the first half, we had more chances, but we’ve to show the hunger to win these matches.”
Flick refused to offer excuses for the setback, specifically declining to blame officiating despite a late red card for Girona’s Joel Roca. He emphasized that the squad must focus internally to correct the structural issues that allowed Thomas Lemar and Beltrán to exploit gaps in the defense. The manager signaled a need for an immediate mental reset, acknowledging that the team is currently enduring a difficult “moment” following their heavy midweek defeat to Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey.
“We did not play well and I don’t want excuses, but we’ve to play better,” Flick added.
The Blaugrana now face a pressurized week of training as they prepare to host Levante this coming weekend. With Real Madrid currently holding the advantage in the title race, Flick knows his side cannot afford further slips if they hope to defend their domestic crown. The coaching staff will likely prioritize tactical drills focused on defensive positioning and transitional organization to ensure a more resilient performance in their next outing.
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