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Barcelona defender highlights need for improved defense to win Champions League

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 14, 2026, 11:35 AM

Last updated Oct 14, 2026

Barcelona defender highlights need for improved defense to win Champions League

Summary

Former Barcelona defender Abelardo Fernandez expressed concerns about the team's defensive depth under manager Hansi Flick. Although Barcelona has won their first 10 competitive matches this season, Abelardo believes they need a reliable, top-class center-back to compete effectively in the Champions League. He emphasized the importance of winning defensive duels against elite forwards. While praising the team's attacking talent, including Lamine Yamal, Abelardo warned that defensive shortcomings could hinder their European ambitions. Barcelona continues their campaign after a strong start, but questions about their defensive strategy remain.

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By the Numbers

•Barcelona has won their first 10 matches under Hansi Flick.
•Abelardo Fernandez identifies lack of defensive depth as a key concern.
•Barcelona has not kept a clean sheet in Europe since 2025.
•Defensive duels against top forwards will be crucial in knockout rounds.
•Lamine Yamal is highlighted as a standout attacking player.

Latest Updates

11:35 AMYahoo Sports — Former Barcelona defender identifies key weakness Flick must fix to win the Champions League: ‘I hope I’m wrong, but…’

What they're saying

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Barcelona have made an impressive start to the season under Hansi Flick, winning their first 10 competitive matches, but former defender Abelardo Fernandez believes the team still needs one important ...
— Yahoo Sports

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