Former Barcelona defender identifies key weakness Flick must fix to win the Champions League

According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday October 14, 2026, former Barcelona defender Abelardo Fernández has identified a key weakness Hansi Flick must address if Barcelona are to win the Champions League this season.

Barcelona have made an excellent start under Flick, winning their first 10 competitive matches and producing some impressive attacking displays. However, Abelardo believes the team could still be vulnerable defensively against Europe’s strongest sides.

Speaking on Onda Cero’s Radioestadio programme, the former Spain international argued that Barcelona need a reliable, top-class centre-back to improve their chances of going all the way in Europe.

“I hope I’m wrong, but to win the Champions League I think FC Barcelona are missing something in defence – a reliable centre-back,” Abelardo said.

He believes Barcelona have enough quality to win the competition but could struggle when faced with elite attackers in the knockout stages.

“I think there’s still a shortfall in defence – in my opinion, a lack of top-class players – to be able to challenge for the Champions League. They can win it, but I think they’re still missing something,” he added.

Abelardo’s concerns are particularly relevant to Flick’s high defensive line and aggressive pressing approach, which can leave space behind the backline. The former defender warned that Barcelona will need to win crucial defensive duels against players such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Harry Kane.

Despite his concerns, Abelardo was full of praise for Flick’s team. He believes Barcelona are currently in outstanding form and singled out Lamine Yamal for special praise.

“If Lamine Yamal plays at that level, Barça will be unstoppable,” he said.

Abelardo ultimately described Barcelona as “the best team in Europe,” but believes strengthening their defence could be the difference between being a strong contender and actually lifting the Champions League trophy.

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