Barcelona midfielder Rodri Hernandez has revealed details of his early days at the club under German coach Hansi Flick, explaining that he was surprised by the intensity of the physical training and the workload demanded from the players.
Rodri Expected Possession-Based Barcelona
Speaking to "Mundo Deportivo", Rodri said he initially expected to join a Barcelona team built around possession and short passing.
However, his first days at the club were different from what he had anticipated, as the players went through four days of demanding physical sessions and gym work.
Rodri said he was genuinely surprised by the intensity of the training, recalling his reaction at the time: “Where did I end up?”
Rodri Compares Flick and Pep Guardiola
Rodri also discussed the differences between Hansi Flick’s approach and Pep Guardiola’s training philosophy.
He explained that Guardiola believed matches themselves provided players with the rhythm they needed, while Flick takes a different approach by demanding a high level of physical work from the beginning.
Rodri Discusses Barcelona’s Running Numbers
The Barcelona midfielder also spoke about the team’s running statistics, saying the Catalan side ranks second among the teams covering the most distance in the Spanish league.
When asked which team runs the least, Rodri jokingly replied: “Real Madrid?”
Rodri: Efficient Running Creates More Opportunities
Rodri stressed that modern football is closely connected to teams that cover more ground, while emphasizing that running must be efficient and performed in the right way.
He explained that physical effort should not simply mean running more, but moving effectively and at the right moments, as better movement can create more opportunities during matches.
What did Rodri say about Hansi Flick’s training?
Rodri said he was surprised by the intensity of the physical sessions and gym work during his early days under Flick.
What did Rodri expect when he joined Barcelona?
He expected a Barcelona team focused primarily on possession and short passing.
How did Rodri compare Flick with Guardiola?
He said Guardiola believed matches provided the necessary rhythm, while Flick demands greater physical work from the beginning.
Where does Barcelona rank in running statistics?
According to Rodri, Barcelona ranks second among the teams covering the most distance in the Spanish league.
What did Rodri say about running in modern football?
He said running is an important part of modern football but must be done efficiently and correctly.
