Ferran Torres Struggles with Confidence
“A number 9 is judged by his goals,” said FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, reflecting on the current struggles of Ferran Torres. The forward has not found the back of the net in his last eight matches across all competitions, a concerning trend for a player who has netted 16 goals this season.
Flick further noted, “He lacks confidence right now, but we are working on it,” after substituting Torres in the 62nd minute of the match against Athletic Club. This decision came as part of a strategy to address the player’s recent performance issues.
Despite Torres’s struggles, the match saw a bright spot for Barcelona as Lamine Yamal scored the winning goal against Athletic Club. Yamal has been in impressive form, tallying 19 goals in 36 matches this season, showcasing the potential that the team has in its younger players.
Torres’s last goal came on January 31, 2026, against Elche, and since then, he has been unable to replicate that success. This goal drought has raised questions about his role in the team, especially with teammates like Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski also contributing significantly with 14 goals each this season.
Flick’s comments highlight the pressure that comes with being a forward in a top club like Barcelona, where goal-scoring is often the primary measure of success. The coach’s emphasis on confidence suggests that the team is looking to support Torres as he navigates this challenging period.
Pedri González, another key player for Barcelona, remarked, “What he needs to do is not be complacent and keep doing what he does on the pitch,” indicating that the team believes in Torres’s abilities and is hopeful for his return to form.
The atmosphere within the squad remains positive, with Flick stating, “I am proud of them… this special atmosphere in the team – how they stand together, the environment, everything is fantastic.” This camaraderie may play a crucial role in helping Torres regain his confidence.
As Barcelona continues its campaign, the focus will be on how Torres can overcome this slump and contribute to the team’s success moving forward. The next matches will be critical for him to regain his scoring touch and restore his confidence on the pitch.