Rafa Alkorta says Barcelona’s pressing gives Hansi Flick’s side a tactical edge over Real Madrid

Rafa Alkorta, the former Real Madrid defender, says Barcelona’s intense pressing under Hansi Flick is a tactical feature the Spanish champions will not be able to reproduce, despite both clubs making perfect starts to the La Liga season.

Barcelona and Real Madrid have each won their opening three matches and share the summit of the table. Barcelona lead on goals scored, however, having found the net 12 times in an impressive attacking start for both teams.

Speaking on the Cadena SER radio programme El Larguero, Alkorta said Real Madrid should not be expected to copy the approach being used by their rivals.

“Anyone who thought that any team could do what Barcelona are doing should forget it. We will never see Real Madrid using the kind of pressing Barcelona use.”

Alkorta believes the way Barcelona press is one of the clearest tactical differences between the two sides. He said the system requires a collective structure and a level of tactical commitment that would be difficult for Real Madrid to repeat.

The former Real Madrid defender did not suggest that Carlo Ancelotti’s side must adopt the same method to remain successful. Instead, he pointed to the club’s recent record, including their success in the UEFA Champions League, as evidence that Real Madrid have achieved major honours without relying on pressing in the same way.

“It is true that they did not need that, because they won the Champions League and other trophies without it, but I believe there is a different system and a different commitment at Real Madrid.”

Barcelona’s current approach has been one of the notable features of Flick’s early period in charge. Alkorta’s comments underline the contrast between the two leading Spanish clubs, with Barcelona’s coordinated pressure seen as central to the way they have begun the campaign.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, will also have to manage the physical demands placed on a squad containing several high-profile players. Alkorta warned that maintaining their current levels could become increasingly difficult as the season progresses if their workload is not handled carefully.

He specifically mentioned Jude Bellingham and his team-mates, saying it would be a challenge for them to sustain their form until March without careful management of their appearances and energy.

The former defender’s comments come as both clubs have made strong attacking starts and prepare for a long season containing domestic and European commitments. While Barcelona’s pressing has attracted particular attention, Alkorta’s wider point was that Real Madrid’s route to success does not necessarily depend on matching that intensity.

He said the two clubs operate with different systems and different tactical demands, and that Real Madrid’s previous achievements show they can continue competing for major honours without attempting to become a copy of Barcelona.