In a better world, a break would be a break, and the Barcelona players would return to the Camp Nou fresh and ready to continue where they left off in defense of their perfect start.
Instead, Barcelona are in a way are paying a penalty for their early success as their best players have logged big minutes for their national teams, as those managers look to capitalize on the magic coming out of Catalonia.
This is the reality of modern football. Hansi Flick knows it well, and has even had clashes with
the likes of Luis de la Fuente in an effort to protect his players from being over used.
Where things stand, Lamine Yamal started all four games for Spain, while Raphinha was sent back to Barcelona early after picking up a knock; Anthony Gordon, in spite of his impressive performances for England, was at least given a break in their last match.
Up the road, Barcelona have tough matches in La Liga and the Champions League.
First up is Getafe at home. Flick must understand that stage two of the season coming out of the international break will not look or feel like the first stage. His team could not have been more perfect in terms of results and performances, but going forward the same level of execution may be harder to come by on a consistent basis.
José Bordalás knows Barcelona well, and will have many ideas for how to use the dark arts to muddy the waters at the Camp Nou when his team visits on Saturday. He will have studied Barca’s tactics, and will do everything he can to disrupt the game plan.
This is Flick’s first big test. He will have to put his faith in new players because his top performers are returning from international duty fatigued and in need of a breather.
Raphinha is the biggest question mark. It would be a surprise to see him start, and who Flick replaces him with will say a lot about his plan B strategy going forward.
But what about Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Rodri, and Pau Cubarsí? I would expect them to start the game, but in the future, their minutes will also have to be managed.
This is time of the season when player rotation is key, as well flexibility in tactics based on the opponent and the competition you’re playing in.
We would like nothing more than the continuation of electrifying entertainment, but is that high-intensity approach sustainable?
It is if Flick can rely on his roster from top to bottom, especially in games like the one against Getafe.
There are big tests ahead, and in order to continue the unprecedented perfect start, Barcelona will need to adapt to changing circumstances from game to game.
Scoring five goals a game would be a thrill to see, but some matches it will be equally encouraging to see Barcelona embrace pragmatism in order to get a hard-earned result.
Everyone needs to step up to take pressure off of the stars.
On Saturday, we should get a good look at what the supporting cast can do to keep the party going. This won’t be the last time they’re called on though.
The starting eleven got Barcelona off to a fast start, but depth is what will carry them through when times get tough.
The grind starts now.
