Barcelona see major fall in crucial stats that explains sudden dip in form

A recent report from Mundo Deportivo has shed light on a worrying factor that has affected Barcelona’s 2025/26 season.

The outlet has published detailed data of that the squad, which is showing a surprising lack of physical output, with 14 La Liga teams currently covering more ground per match than the Catalans. 

This comes as a shock, given Hansi Flick’s reputation for high-intensity pressing and rigorous physical preparation.

From relentless press to running shortfalls

When Flick arrived at Barcelona, he implemented significant changes to the players’ daily routines, focusing heavily on conditioning and injury prevention. 

The club’s new head of physical training, Julio Tous, even promised a radical improvement, including a 50% reduction in injuries.

However, the current season tells a different story. By October, the team has already faced a worrying number of muscle injuries. 

Barcelona were quite efficient in running for and with the ball last season. (Source: Mundo Deportivo)

Key players like Robert Lewandowski, Alejandro Balde, Fermin Lopez, Raphinha, and Dani Olmo have all been sidelined multiple times, while young prodigy Lamine Yamal has missed half of this season’s matches.

Physical performance data also paints a concerning picture. During their recent La Liga-winning campaigns under Flick, Barcelona consistently led the league in meters covered per player, sprints, and mid-distance runs. 

Even Real Madrid, in those seasons, ran less than Barça. The physical dominance was a key factor in Flick’s high-pressing, goal-scoring style.

A new low in physical output

In contrast, this season’s Barcelona squad ranks below the La Liga average in nearly all physical metrics. 

Injuries and fatigue are part of the explanation, but they don’t tell the whole story. 

The early-season data suggest that the team’s intensity and work rate are far from previous standards, raising questions about training, recovery, and squad management.

While Flick typically delegates physical preparation, this downturn puts the issue squarely in his spotlight, meaning that their title defence could be jeopardised if this is not addressed.