Five Matches in December That Will Define Barcelona’s Path to Success

December’s fixtures could make or break Barcelona’s season, with tough tests waiting at every turn

December is here, and for Barcelona, it’s shaping up to be a month that could define their entire season. After a lackluster November that saw them squander a comfortable lead over Real Madrid and let Atlético Madrid close the gap, Hansi Flick’s side faces a brutal set of fixtures. With three consecutive away games followed by two critical home matches, the Blaugrana will need grit, strategy, and a touch of brilliance to navigate this storm.

The month begins with a tricky trip to Mallorca, a team quietly punching above its weight under Jagoba Arrasate. Sitting sixth in the league, Mallorca has momentum on their side, boasting back-to-back wins in their recent outings. For Barcelona, this isn’t just another away game—it’s the first hurdle in a month-long marathon where every slip-up could have severe consequences. Flick’s squad, already grappling with doubts after their recent form, will need to be at their sharpest to avoid an early stumble.

Next up is a visit to Sevilla to face Real Betis. Betis, a team notorious for their inconsistency, might not seem intimidating at first glance. But underestimate them at your peril. With a roster featuring quality players capable of turning games on their head, Betis at home can be a dangerous opponent. This match also marks the reunion with Vitor Roque, adding an emotional subplot to an already intriguing fixture.

As if two challenging league games weren’t enough, Barcelona then heads to Germany to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. The Signal Iduna Park is not just a stadium; it’s a fortress. The electric atmosphere, combined with Dortmund’s formidable home record, makes this a daunting task. With both teams vying for a crucial top-two spot in their group, this match is more than just a test of skill—it’s a test of nerve. The outcome could very well determine Barcelona’s European destiny this season.

After these taxing road games, Barcelona finally returns to the familiar surroundings of the Lluís Companys Stadium. First, they host Leganés, a team that might appear to be an easier opponent on paper. Yet, as Barcelona fans learned the hard way against Las Palmas, no game is truly a gimme. Flick will be keen to ensure his team avoids complacency, especially with the stakes so high.

The month—and the year—culminates with a blockbuster clash against Atlético Madrid. This isn’t just any game; this is a battle against a direct rival for the La Liga title. Diego Simeone’s side is known for their resilience and tactical nous, making them one of the toughest teams to beat. A win here could provide Barcelona with the perfect springboard heading into the second half of the season. A loss, however, could leave them licking their wounds and wondering what might have been.

For Hansi Flick, December is more than just a test of his tactical acumen. It’s a test of his ability to inspire and rally a team that’s shown signs of vulnerability. Can he reignite the spark that saw Barcelona dominate earlier in the season? Can he manage the squad effectively, ensuring key players are fresh for the high-stakes games? These are the questions that will be answered in the coming weeks.

Barcelona’s December is a gauntlet, no doubt about it. But it’s also an opportunity—a chance to prove their mettle, silence the doubters, and set the tone for the rest of the campaign. The road ahead is tough, but for a club like Barcelona, the toughest challenges often bring out their best.

References: El Barcelona de Flick, ante un calendario infernal – AS.com