Barcelona must find precision to make a major Liga move

Precision will be crucial for Barcelona as it returns to La Liga and the Champions League after a three-week break. Starting tomorrow, the club begins a sequence of eight matches in less than a month, giving it a chance to make a significant move in the domestic championship. Hansi Flick will need to manage his squad carefully to take advantage.

The international window took as many as 17 players away. There were no serious injuries, but some players are carrying knocks while others are tired. By contrast, Balde and Gavi, who did not leave, are now in good shape despite their initial disappointment. Flick will need to keep a cool head in those circumstances.

The stakes extend beyond the immediate return: if Barcelona beats Getafe, Betis, Madrid, Alavés and Atlético, the gap to its major Madrid rivals could become a heavy burden for them by November. The Champions League will not be decided now, but gaining ground on Madrid and Atleti in La Liga before another break would be a major boost for Barcelona and could also raise the pressure at the Casa Blanca.