Barcelona goalkeeper Szczesny criticizes Hansi Flick’s playing style: “It’s not my style”
Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has openly questioned manager Hansi Flick’s ultra-attacking tactics, suggesting the team’s approach could leave the defense too exposed even in victory.
Szczesny Voices Concerns Over Flick’s Tactical Philosophy
In a recent interview with Foot Truck, Szczesny who took over as Barcelona’s first-choice goalkeeper last season said Flick’s relentless offensive mindset doesn’t align with his own footballing philosophy.
“This isn’t my kind of football,” said the Polish international. “For the fans, it’s beautiful. But not even the victories change the way I view the football I prefer to play.”
The comments come just months after Barcelona suffered a 7-3 aggregate loss to Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, a tie that exposed defensive vulnerabilities despite the club’s otherwise successful season.
“I Want Clean Sheets, Not Chaos,” Says Barça Keeper
Szczesny elaborated on the challenges of playing behind a team that constantly pushes forward.
“When we’re winning 4-0 and everyone’s only thinking about scoring more goals, it frustrates me. I want to finish a match without conceding. But the guys just want to keep attacking and having fun,” he added.
Despite his reservations, the 34-year-old made it clear that his remarks were not meant as harsh criticism, but rather a personal preference for more tactical balance.
Flick Remains Committed to Offensive Football
Barcelona enjoyed a trophy-laden 2024/25 season, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup under Flick’s leadership. The German coach implemented a high-pressing system, emphasizing constant offensive pressure and line-breaking attacks.
That philosophy isn’t expected to change. In fact, Barcelona plan to go even more attacking in the 2025/26 campaign. New loan signing Marcus Rashford is being integrated into a four-forward formation during pre-season, with only Frenkie de Jong and Pedri anchoring the midfield.
