Hansi Flick’s ability to build strong relationships with his players has become an important part of his success at Barcelona.
In fact, according to SPORT, the German coach has developed a particularly close connection with three footballers he has worked with during his career, namely Raphinha, Manuel Neuer and Alphonso Davies.
Since arriving at Barcelona, Flick has earned the trust of his dressing room and helped several players improve their performances.
His direct communication and willingness to back his squad have contributed to a positive atmosphere, with relatively few public disagreements between the coach and his players.
However, three relationships stand out for different reasons, ranging from a decisive role in a player’s future to shared leadership qualities and the discovery of a major talent.
Raphinha and Flick have developed a strong bond
Raphinha’s relationship with Flick is perhaps the clearest example of the manager’s influence at Barcelona.
The Brazilian winger considered leaving the club before Flick convinced him to stay, a decision that has proved significant for both parties.
Under the German coach, Raphinha has become an important figure in Barcelona’s attack.
Raphinha is Hansi Flick’s personal favourite. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Their relationship is built on mutual trust, with Flick giving the forward greater responsibility and recognising his influence within the squad.
Notably, Flick handed Raphinha the captain’s armband during the summer and also entrusted him with duties as a central striker after failing to acquire the desired option.
Those decisions reflect the manager’s confidence in the Brazilian’s versatility and leadership.
Neuer shared Flick’s mentality at Bayern Munich
Before moving to Barcelona, Flick developed a close working relationship with Manuel Neuer at Bayern Munich.
Their connection was built on shared leadership qualities and a similar approach to handling daily responsibilities and difficult situations.
Neuer was an established leader during Flick’s time at Bayern, and the pair understood each other both on and off the pitch.
Their relationship was strengthened by the goalkeeper’s influence in the dressing room and his ability to set standards for his teammates.
Manuel Neuer was crucial during Flick’s Bayern Munich tenure. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Crucially, Flick’s Bayern spell coincided with one of the most successful periods of Neuer’s career.
The manager’s trust in experienced leaders was an important part of his approach, allowing influential players to help maintain standards across the squad.
Alphonso Davies remains one of Flick’s favourites
Flick’s relationship with Alphonso Davies was different, as the coach has a particular affection for the Canadian because he played a significant role in the left-back’s development at Bayern Munich.
Davies arrived in Munich in early 2019 and established himself as a major talent.
Barcelona experienced his quality first-hand during their infamous 8-2 Champions League defeat to Bayern in August 2020.
Davies was instrumental in that performance, producing a display that highlighted his ability to influence games at the highest level.
Although his career has not entirely matched the expectations generated by his early rise, Flick retains positive memories of their time together.