Barcelona vs. Villarreal: How manager Hansi Flick relaxed his rules to get the most out of his young players
CBS Sports
by
Francesco Porzio
February 28, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Barcelona’s manager Hansi Flick has made a notable shift in his approach to managing the team, revealing that he relaxed strict rules surrounding player punctuality to foster better teamwork and reduce stress. In an interview, Flick explained how he stopped penalizing players for arriving late to training after realizing it created unnecessary pressure for both himself and his squad. By involving team captains in decision-making and shifting focus from penalties to fostering responsibility, Flick has reportedly seen improved morale and punctuality among the players.
This change in management style comes as Barcelona prepares for a crucial match against Villarreal on Saturday. Currently leading LaLiga by one point over Real Madrid, Flick’s side is aiming to maintain their momentum ahead of the final stretch of the season. The game at Spotify Camp Nou promises to be a test of Barcelona’s form, with Villarreal, a surprise package this season, expected to put up a strong fight.
The match will air live on ESPN+ at 10:15 a.m. ET, with Barcelona slight favorites to win. Flick’s adjusted approach has already shown results, as players like Pedri and Ferran Torres have spoken positively about the new dynamic in training sessions. The manager’s willingness to adapt his leadership style reflects a broader shift in modern football towards more player-centric strategies, aiming to maximize performance while
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/28/2026