Barcelona suffered a heavy 4–0 defeat in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium, in a match where the Catalan side failed at any point to seriously challenge for a positive result.
The defeat once again came in the absence of Pedri and, above all, Raphinha, highlighting the team’s growing dependence on two of the key figures in the lineup.
Barcelona, under the guidance of Hansi Flick, has been built around a collective system in which the functioning of the group takes precedence over individual brilliance.
However, the 2025/2026 season is showing that the absence of Pedri and Raphinha significantly damages the team’s tactical structure, to the point where the game plan loses balance and cohesion.
In terms of build-up play, Pedri’s absence was deeply felt. The available alternatives are more comfortable in advanced roles and struggle when they are required to drop deep to receive the ball under pressure.
Against the coordinated pressing of Atlético’s midfield, the Blaugrana players found it impossible to break free through individual moves or oriented control, making ball circulation predictable and slow.
On the other hand, despite his impressive attacking statistics, Raphinha’s contribution goes beyond goals and assists.
Barcelona play with a high defensive line, and immediate pressure on the opposing ball carrier is essential to avoid spaces opening up at the back.
In the Brazilian’s absence, this pressure was not at its usual level, giving the opponent time and space to build dangerous attacks, while the defenders were forced to retreat in a disorganized manner.
