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Girona vs Barcelona: 3 Key Talking Points Ahead of La Liga Matchday 24

 

Barcelona returns to La Liga action with redemption on their minds as they prepare to face Girona on Matchday 24. The Blaugrana are still reeling from a painful 0–4 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinal first leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano—a result that not only damaged their cup ambitions but also dented team morale. 

Now, Hansi Flick’s men must quickly shift focus to a crucial league encounter against a Girona side currently winless in three matches. While Girona are struggling for form, Barcelona enters the game mentally shaken and could be vulnerable in the early stages.

Here are three major talking points ahead of Girona vs Barcelona. 

1.    Time for Reflection After Atletico Madrid Humbling

If there is one match Barcelona must analyze carefully, it is the heavy defeat to Atletico Madrid. Flick admitted in his post-match press conference that his team was simply not at the required level.

Barcelona was outplayed in intensity, pressing, and overall desire. Atletico showed aggression, sharp counterattacks, and relentless energy, while Barcelona looked slow, disorganized, and second-best in duels. Defensive coordination collapsed, individual errors multiplied, and four goals were conceded in just 45 minutes. 

The pressing lacked structure, the backline lacked cohesion, and the midfield failed to control transitions. Such shortcomings cannot be repeated if Barcelona are serious about their La Liga title ambition.

The response against Girona will reveal the squad’s mentality. A motivated reaction could reignite their season; another passive display would raise serious concerns.

 

2.    Tactical Adjustments Needed in Defense

The full-back positions were particularly exposed against Atletico Madrid. Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde struggled to cope with pacey wingers and rapid counterattacks.

Balde has been impressive in recent weeks, but the lack of a natural winger ahead of him forced him to overcommit in attack, leaving defensive gaps. A possible tactical tweak could see Balde repositioned higher up the pitch if Raphinha does not start, allowing Gerard Martin to offer more defensive balance.

Kaonde’s situation is different. The French defender has struggled for consistency this season and may benefit from a short mental reset. Joao Cancelo presents a viable alternative at right-back and could offer more attacking thrust and composure.

With the season entering a decisive phase, Flick may need to reconsider his defensive setup to restore stability.

3.    Raphinha’s Return – A Major Boost

 

One of the biggest positives ahead of Girona vs Barcelona is the return of Raphinha. The Brazilian has been sidelined since the Albacete match and was not risked against Atletico Madrid, but he is now available.

Flick recently described Raphinha as one of the best players in the world last season, highlighting his importance to the team. Barcelona’s intensity, leadership, and attacking sharpness noticeably drop in his absence. In fact, most of their defeats this season have come when he was unavailable.

Even if he does not start, Raphinha is expected to make an early appearance from the bench. His pace, finishing ability, and dynamism could prove decisive —especially with Marcus Rashford unavailable.

His return also benefits Lamine Yamal, as the added width and experience can reduce pressure on the young winger.