FC Barcelona: a first big headache already arises for Hansi Flick

FC Barcelona is taking on a German accent this summer. After two and a half years with Xavi at its head, the Catalan club is taking another path and has decided to bet on Hans-Dieter Flick to be its future coach. A new era will therefore begin and this risks causing upheavals in the workforce. One sector seems particularly important for the Blaugranas, that of defense. With 44 goals conceded in La Liga this season (tied for 5th defense), the difference is particularly notable compared to the previous year (20 goals conceded). But more than in terms of arrivals, it is in terms of departures that things will change and Hansi Flick will have to decide.

Catalan media Mundo Deportivo takes stock of the situation in this sector of play. With eight elements if we count Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, Clément Lenglet and Mika Faye, we will have to make room. First, let’s take the case Ronald Araujo. Potential holder, but also transferable, because he has a high market value, the Uruguayan defender appeals to Hans-Dieter Flick in particular thanks to his physical qualities. A player on whom the German coach wants to rely despite interest from Chelsea or even Bayern Munich. To support him in the axis, Hans-Dieter Flick will also count on Andreas Christensen.

Five players whose situation is rather unclear

Deported to the midfield in relation to the demands of Xavi and the injuries in the middle of the field, the Dane should finally find a more usual position for him. His new coach seems to appreciate his profile. Untouchable for FC Barcelona, Pau Cubarsi will obviously be there next season and Hans-Dieter Fick will obviously be able to count on the 17-year-old player. For the other five, however, it is less obvious. For example Eric Garcia very successful with Girona had a good chance of staying if Xavi continues as number one. Now the situation is more vague and could lead to the player under contract until June 2026 being loaned out again. For Jules Koundé that will also be a big question. Aligned on the right side in a position that he is not very fond of, he who is rather central, the Frenchman wants to stay at Barça. The place and role that Hans-Dieter Flick will offer him will be important.

Inigo Martinez alternated hot and cold, but is appreciated within the club. If at FC Barcelona we want to continue with him for another season, nothing indicates that the new coach will bet on him. Same story for Mika Faye whose future seems blocked in the short term. Staying with the reserve, a loan or a sale, the future looks very uncertain for the Senegalese defender in the immediate future. Finally and then it will be easier, Clement Lenglet will not be in next season’s draft. Returning from loan from Aston Villa, the French defender will be on the move again. Barça would prefer to sell him who is under contract until June 2026.