Hansi Flick lays down the law! Even Barcelona president Joan Laporta forced to follow German coach's rules as he enforces strict training policy

According to Relevo, the German manager took initial steps to understand Barcelona’s culture by meeting with footballing figures across Europe, including former Blaugrana coach Pep Guardiola in Manchester and even had lunch with Domenec Torrent, Guardiola’s former assistant. After taking charge of the team he continues to demonstrate a deep commitment to the club as he attended Barcelona’s Champions League handball tournament in Cologne and participated in the Catalan National Day celebration in September.

Inside the locker room, players appreciate his approachable demeanour and occasional humour, yet Flick is firm when it comes to discipline. In one significant shift, he replaced traditional fines for lateness with diminished game time, a change that has introduced heightened accountability among the players. The rules set down by the manager aren’t limited to players but also extend to the top officials including president Laporta.

During Barcelona’s preseason in the United States, Laporta and his team of directors attended training sessions dressed in their usual formal attire. On one of the early days, Flick made a candid request and encouraged him to adopt a more casual dress code, fitting the informal nature of training sessions. Respecting Flick, Laporta complied. At the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, where Barcelona held the majority of their preseason practices, the official started showing up in club tracksuits while he casually engaged with other directors and observed Flick’s strategies up close.

Flick’s influence is evident not only in attire but also in training routines. He has implemented rigorous protocols for match days, including mandatory morning activation sessions and strategic pre-match meetings. Previously, under Xavi’s management, such sessions were held selectively, depending on the significance of the game. Flick’s consistency in scheduling has built a strong sense of routine, which he believes will improve both fitness and focus among the players.

In a few months, Flick’s structured approach has brought about a transformation and they are reaping the rewards on the field. They are six points clear of rivals Real Madrid in the La Liga standings and could extend it to nine when they lock horns against Real Sociedad on Sunday evening at Anoeta.