Hansi Flick will have his real test after the international break – what to expect | OneFootball

Barcelona entered the second international break of the season on a positive note, thanks to a comprehensive 3-0 win over Deportivo Alaves on Sunday.

The Catalans will be heading into the break as league leaders, with a three-point lead over second-placed Real Madrid.

However, the real challenge awaits after the international break, where it will be imperative for Hansi Flick’s men to maintain their consistency, in both domestic and European competitions.

Barcelona vs Sevilla

Sevilla will be the first opponent for Barcelona after the international break, with Barça tipped to face Los Nervionenses on October 20.

This will prove to be a must-win affair for Flick’s men, knowing any slip-up could allow Real Madrid to get level on points at the top of the table.

Sevilla, for their part, haven’t had the best of starts, having secured only three wins in nine matches. But they will be a formidable opponent nonetheless, having yet to concede a defeat in the last three matches.

Flick will face numerous challenges after the break (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Barcelona vs Bayern Munich

By far the biggest challenge for Barcelona this season, the contest against Bayern Munich will serve as an acid test for Hansi Flick.

Not too long ago, Flick commandeered over a Bayern side that secured an 8-2 victory over Barça in the Champions League. Now, he will be tasked with the responsibility of turning the tide.

Having lost their opening Champions League, Barcelona simply cannot afford to lose or even drop a point, if they are to finish in the top eight in the league stage.

Real Madrid vs Barcelona

The Bayern Munich test will be followed by yet another tough contest against arch-rivals Real Madrid on October 26.

Should Barcelona drop points against Sevilla after the break, the club simply cannot afford to lose against Real Madrid, if they are to remain on top of the league table.

Real Madrid, for their part, have looked quite shaky despite their positive results. But recent historical data suggests the Spanish champions have always managed to grind out points against Barcelona.

Whether or not the Catalans can put an end to his trend, therefore, remains to be seen.