Hansi Flick has begun a new chapter in Barcelona's history. The German opened the defence of his La Liga title with a thumping 5-0 win over Elche, taking his first steps towards a feat managed by only two of the club's coaching legends.
According to the Spanish newspaper "Mundo Deportivo", Flick is chasing a third La Liga title in a row, something only Johan Cruyff and Pep Guardiola have ever achieved at the club.
His La Liga journey started with a 2-1 win over Valencia in his first season. A 3-0 victory over Real Mallorca opened his second. Now he has kept the habit going with a five-goal demolition of Elche to launch the current campaign.
The newspaper noted that Flick has already set out to defend the title for a third straight time, closing in on Guardiola, who led Barcelona to three consecutive crowns between 2009 and 2011. The historic record still belongs to Cruyff, who was crowned La Liga champion four times in a row between 1991 and 1994.
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The perfect start comes with a warning. "Mundo Deportivo" pointed out that the road will not be easy, given the expected challenge from Real Madrid, who strengthened their squad with big summer signings and brought Jose Mourinho back to the dugout to reclaim the title.
Barcelona's win over Elche confirmed their readiness to keep dominating at home. A strong attacking display handed Flick the perfect launchpad in his bid to join the list of the club's most successful coaches.
One full season now separates him from matching Guardiola. To equal Cruyff's record, which has stood for more than three decades, he must retain the La Liga title for a fourth time.