Hansi Flick reveals strict rule behind Barcelona's brilliant start to the season

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has revealed the strict rule he has for his squad in order to maintain discipline.

The Catalan giants have enjoyed an immense start to the 2024/25 campaign, sitting atop the La Liga table six points clear of fierce rivals Real Madrid ahead of their clash with Real Sociedad on Sunday evening. Flick's reign so far has been considerably more successful than the end of Xavi's tenure last season, putting the side in serious contention for the league title.

But with great power comes great responsibility, something Flick has adapted to already since his arrival in Catalonia in July. The coach's strict beliefs first came to light during Barca's 3-0 win over Alaves, during which defender Jules Kounde was dropped from the starting lineup after arriving late to a pre-game meeting.

When asked to explain the reasoning behind his tough regulations, Flick told reporters: "It's a rule, a norm. I'm not talking about what happened before. It's about respecting the team. The others have to wait for you and it's disrespectful."

The German boss also revealed how he feels regarding comparisons with former boss Xavi.

"I think that always comparing my work with Xavi's is not fair," he continued. "They are two different situations and I have a lot of respect [for him], he was a great player and a great coach. But now I'm here.

"Of course, he gave the academy the opportunity to play and it is also his merit. We could say that I continue in this [way]."

Barca will travel to face Real Sociedad on Sunday evening after seven successive wins in La Liga and the Champions League combined.

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