According to a report by Barca Universal on Monday October 26, 2026, Hansi Flick has admitted Barcelona lacked physical freshness during their 2-1 El Clasico defeat against Real Madrid, acknowledging that fatigue, defensive injuries and a demanding schedule have affected their recent performances.

The loss marked Barcelona’s first defeat in ten La Liga matches and their second setback within one week. Flick has urged his players to recover quickly, regain their energy and respond positively before November’s international break.

The German manager acknowledged that Real Madrid performed better than in previous meetings, while insisting Barcelona must accept the result rather than search for excuses. He said, “We played against an opponent that was better than in previous Clásicos. We weren’t fresh.”

Flick added, “It’s not easy, but we have to accept it. Barça has to keep going.” He stressed that the squad must recover the sharpness and intensity demonstrated earlier in the season.

Although Barcelona improved after halftime and equalised, their attacking approach eventually exposed them to Madrid’s decisive counterattack. Flick explained that his team controlled periods of the match but failed to prevent the winning goal.

“I’m not satisfied. Today it was clear we weren’t 100% fresh. Normally we would have been fresher,” the manager admitted, before emphasising that defeats remain part of football.

Flick insisted the team must respond quickly, saying, “We’ve had two defeats this week and that’s too many for me, and, no doubt, for the Barça fans as well. But this is part of the sport and we have to bounce back.”

He also dismissed suggestions that Barcelona’s travel schedule should excuse their performance, explaining that players would rest before returning to training on Wednesday. Several squad members are expected to attend the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London.

The manager confirmed that injuries involving Xavi Espart, Dani Olmo and Eric Garcia have reduced his defensive options. Consequently, Barcelona could promote additional youngsters from La Masia while waiting for injured players to return.

“We may have to call up more players from La Masia. We’ll sort it out,” Flick explained, adding that Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia could return soon.

Flick also defended his decision to introduce Frenkie de Jong, explaining that the midfielder had trained well and offered the team additional energy. Barcelona now face pressure to win their remaining matches before the international break.