Overview

• Speaking on his Einfach mal Luppen podcast, the former Real Madrid midfielder praised Barcelona’s flair but argued they take too many risks to prevail in Europe.
• He highlighted recurring vulnerability after the 75th minute, saying fatigue sets in without a shift to a more compact, space‑closing setup.
• The critique comes after a 2-1 home defeat to PSG on a 90th‑minute goal and a 4-1 loss at Sevilla that included strikes in the 90th and 96th minutes.
• Kroos pointed to last season’s elimination by Inter Milan and warned that off‑days for Pedri, Lamine Yamal or Raphinha could be enough to knock Barcelona out.
• Reporting also underscores a thin squad and ongoing financial limits that have curtailed recruitment, reducing Hansi Flick’s ability to rotate or alter late‑game tactics.