Toni Kroos says Barça are vulnerable when their pressing fails
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on La Nouvelle Tribune
Toni Kroos believes FC Barcelona are vulnerable when their pressing fails to prevent opponents from building their attacks. The former Real Madrid midfielder offered the analysis in a podcast, where he also praised José Mourinho’s tactical vision, La Nouvelle Tribune reports.
Toni Kroos believes FC Barcelona become vulnerable when their pressing no longer controls the match. The former Real Madrid midfielder explained that opponents can then exploit the spaces behind the Catalan defence, particularly through switches of play and balls in behind, according to an analysis given in a podcast reported by La Nouvelle Tribune.
The playing system of Hansi Flick’s team relies on a very high defensive line to reduce space and win the ball back quickly. When the first line of pressure is beaten, Barcelona’s defenders become more exposed, according to Toni Kroos, who believes Barça’s difficulties go beyond individual errors.
To illustrate his analysis, the former Germany international cited Real Madrid’s victory at Camp Nou in the last Clásico. He attributed the Madrid side’s success to tactical discipline inspired by José Mourinho, which helped disrupt Barcelona’s organisation and limit the influence of Pedri and Raphinha. The match had been preceded by José Mourinho’s return to the Clásico against Barça on 24 October, before the coach said the title race had been reopened after the 2-1 victory on 26 October.
