Laying the foundations: Hansi Flick's core four

The Catalans had already seen off Vissel Kobe 3-1 in a high-profile encounter and edged a goal-laden contest against FC Seoul 7-3.

While Hansi Flick has used these summer fixtures to rotate his squad and experiment with various systems, a clear pattern has emerged: four players have featured in every starting line-up so far. Joan Garcia, Alejandro Balde, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal have become the cornerstones of the new manager's plans.

Joan Garcia, a recent arrival from Espanyol, appears to be staking his claim as Barcelona's first-choice goalkeeper. Starting all three matches, the 23-year-old has conceded just three goals and produced a handful of sharp saves to settle in quickly to his new surroundings.

At the back, Balde's regular involvement signals Flick's intent to restore the young full-back to full confidence following the injury that ruled him out of the business end of last season.

Further up the pitch, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal have featured prominently on the flanks, offering both consistency and attacking threat.

Yamal has looked sharp, already contributing two goals and an assist, while Raphinha – who lit up last season with a remarkable tally of 34 goals and 22 assists – is still seeking rhythm but remains an undoubted asset in Flick's setup.

With the Gamper Trophy clash against Como still to come, Barcelona's unbeaten run could yet extend to four wins from four. But even at this early stage, Flick's blueprint is beginning to take shape – and these four players appear central to it.