Lionel Messi, the legendary former Barcelona star, has hailed his old club's "spectacular" form this season under new manager Hansi Flick. Barcelona’s dominant performances in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League have earned widespread acclaim, with Messi expressing pride in their achievements.
A Transformational Season for Barcelona
After a challenging campaign last season, where Barcelona finished 10 points behind Real Madrid and exited the Champions League in the quarterfinals, the arrival of Hansi Flick has reinvigorated the team. Barcelona currently leads La Liga with 11 wins from their first 13 matches and has been a force to reckon with in Europe.
Messi highlighted the influence of young talents like Lamine Yamal, who has been pivotal this season with 14 goal contributions in just 16 games across all competitions. Other young players, including Gavi, Pedri, and Pau Cubarsi, have also thrived under Flick’s leadership.
"This Barca side is spectacular," Messi said in an interview with Catalan station TV3. "It doesn’t surprise me, though. It’s always been this way, especially for players who grow up in this club's system."
Flick’s Influence on Barcelona
Hansi Flick has brought a fresh tactical approach to Barcelona, allowing stars like Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha to shine while integrating promising youth players into the starting lineup. The club's newfound balance between experienced veterans and emerging talents has restored its competitive edge.
Flick, in response to Messi’s praise, described it as "an honor" coming from "the best player in Barcelona’s history."
Messi’s Connection to Barcelona
Although Messi is currently playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, his ties to Barcelona remain strong. The 37-year-old hinted at plans to return to the city with his family in the future, describing Barcelona as their "home."
"We still think about living in Barcelona again," Messi shared. "My kids and my wife miss it. We left a lot behind when we moved, but Barcelona will always be our home."
Looking Ahead
As Barcelona continues its resurgence under Flick, fans are optimistic about the club reclaiming its place among Europe’s elite. With a blend of experienced players and a golden generation of young talent, the future looks bright for the Blaugrana.
Messi’s comments reflect the enduring bond between him and the club where he became a global icon, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest figures in Barcelona’s storied history.