Flick's 10 lineups against Atlético: his tactical experiments

Analysis of Flick's 10 different starting lineups against Atlético Madrid since joining Barcelona, examining tactical experiments in midfield, defence and attack across LaLiga, Copa and Champions League matches.

Since arriving at Barcelona in the 2024-25 season, Hansi Flick has faced Atlético Madrid on 10 occasions across LaLiga, Copa del Rey and Champions League, recording six wins, one draw and three defeats with 20 goals for and 17 against.

Flick has deployed varying lineups depending on injuries, suspensions and tactical needs. In midfield, he has experimented most, using different combinations of Casadó, Gavi, Pedri, De Jong and Fermín. Eric García has occasionally operated as a midfielder. In defence, Cubarsí, Koundé and Balde have been regulars, with Araujo and Cancelo providing alternatives. Pedri has been a near-constant presence in midfield alongside different partners. In attack, Flick has alternated between Olmo and Fermín as attacking midfielders, with Lamine and Raphinha on the wings, though injuries have forced changes. Lewandowski and Ferran Torres have shared the striker role, with Olmo deployed as a false nine on one occasion.

With Rodri currently sidelined through injury, the analysis examines which midfielders could deputise alongside Pedri, noting that Bernal, Gavi and De Jong have all featured in that role against Atlético previously.