Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has cautioned that FC Barcelona may be “paying the price” for their risky style of play, warning that any top side could eliminate them from the UEFA Champions League if their key players underperform.
Speaking on his podcast Einfach mal Luppen, which he co-hosts with his brother Felix, Kroos analysed Barcelona’s recent poor run of form, including their losses to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Sevilla.
“Barcelona has one of the most attractive styles of play in Europe — the most attractive in Europe,” Kroos said, acknowledging the flair and beauty of their football.
However, the retired German international was quick to note the dangers of such an approach, especially under current head coach Hansi Flick.
“I also think that Barcelona take so many risks. On a bad day for Pedri, Lamine Yamal or Raphinha, any team can hurt them and knock them out of the Champions League,” he explained.
Fatigue and vulnerability
Kroos highlighted how physical and mental fatigue often leave Barcelona exposed in the latter stages of matches.
“Especially after the 75th minute, you notice that everyone is more tired and they don’t change to another style of closing down space,” he observed. “If you’re tired and you don’t change your style of play, it becomes very obvious how exposed you are.”
The former Real Madrid star referenced Barcelona’s past Champions League exits as a warning sign.
“It happened to them last year with Inter Milan, and this year, whether in the round of 16, the quarterfinals, the semifinals, or the final, at some point they will come up against an opponent like that,” Kroos noted.
He added that while the Catalan club might struggle in Europe, their domestic form should remain strong: “This will happen to Barcelona in the Champions League, but I don’t think it will happen in La Liga because they are very dominant.”
Kroos’ remarks come amid growing scrutiny of Hansi Flick’s tactics following Barcelona’s inconsistent performances this season.
