Barcelona are once again chasing history. The Catalan giants are aiming to win their 16th Supercopa de España title, further extending their record and defending the trophy they lifted last season. Head coach Hansi Flick believes this competition could provide a major energy boost for Barcelona as they prepare for the long 2025–26 campaign.
Barca arrive in Saudi Arabia as the reigning champions after defeating arch-rivals Real Madrid in last year’s final. This time, their journey begins with a tough semifinal clash against Athletic Club on Wednesday.
In the other semifinal, Real Madrid will face city rivals Atletico Madrid a day later. The Supercopa de España final itself is scheduled for the weekend at King Abdullah Sports City, promising another high-profile showdown.
Supercopa Seen as the Spark for Success
Flick has every reason to be confident. Last season, Barcelona’s Supercopa triumph proved to be more than just an early trophy. It became the foundation for an impressive domestic treble, as Flick guided the team to LaLiga and Copa del Rey titles.
This season, the situation looks promising once again. Barcelona currently sit at the top of the LaLiga table with a four-point lead and have secured a place in the Copa del Rey round of 16. While their Champions League journey has been less convincing, Flick insists the Supercopa still holds special importance.
“This tournament is a bit different compared to the one in Germany, but I really like it,” Flick said. “Winning the Super Cup last season gave us a lot of energy for the rest of the year, and that’s exactly what we want again this time.”
League Favorites, But Defensive Issues Remain
Statistically, Barcelona are also the clear favorites to win LaLiga. According to Opta simulations, Barca have a 79 percent chance of lifting the league title, while Real Madrid trail behind with around 19 percent.
Their domestic form backs this up. Barcelona recently extended their winning streak in LaLiga to nine matches with a hard-fought victory over Espanyol. Goalkeeper Joan Garcia was the standout performer.
Garcia became the first Barcelona goalkeeper since Marc-André ter Stegen in 2023 to make six saves without conceding a goal in a top-flight Spanish match. However, Flick was quick to point out that the team still has work to do.
Espanyol managed 14 shots compared to Barcelona’s 15 and even registered more shots on target. For Flick, that performance raised concerns ahead of the Supercopa.
“If we make the same mistakes we made on Saturday, it won’t be an easy match,” Flick warned. “We need to defend much better and play more connected as a team. That’s something I missed, and we must improve.”
Squad Updates: Araujo and Cancelo
Barcelona could receive a timely boost with the possible return of Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan defender has been on an extended mental health break after receiving a red card in a heavy Champions League defeat last November.
Flick said a final decision on Araujo’s involvement will be made after training and discussions with the player.
Meanwhile, Barcelona are also closing in on a loan deal for João Cancelo from Al-Hilal until the end of the season. Cancelo previously spent the 2023–24 campaign on loan at Barcelona and is expected to provide valuable depth at full-back on both sides.
“João can give us more options, especially as a full-back on either side. He has great quality,” Flick explained. “But as far as I know, the deal isn’t completed yet.”
Clear Goal: Strong Start, Long-Term Ambition
With a strong league position, a motivated squad, and potential reinforcements on the way, Barcelona see the 2025 Supercopa de España as more than just a trophy. For Flick and his players, it represents a chance to build momentum, confidence, and a winning mentality from the very start of the season.
One thing is clear: Barcelona want this title not only to defend their crown, but to fuel another year of success.
