Hansi Flick requests Barcelona to sign a versatile full-back after defensive struggles

Hansi Flick is largely satisfied with Barcelona’s performance this season. Despite occasional dips in form and lapses in concentration that have cost the team clear victories, he believes the club is building a solid project with a bright future.

The Blaugrana have been particularly impressive in attack, but Flick is aware that their defensive balance needs improvement in high-stakes matches, such as the recent clash against Atletico Madrid.

Flick wants a new full-back

As a result, SPORT reports that Flick has requested Barcelona to sign a high-quality full-back capable of playing on both flanks, and the club will do everything possible to fulfil his request.

In his initial discussions with sporting director Deco last summer, Flick was clear that the squad could compete for all titles with a few adjustments.

The German tactician requested one or two game-changing attacking players and would have liked a right-back after assessing that the defensive midfield role could be handled internally by Marc Bernal and Marc Casado.

At the time, Barcelona came close to signing Marc Pubill, but financial constraints prevented the deal. The club also missed out on Joao Cancelo’s permanent signing.

After thoroughly analysing Xavi’s Barcelona, Flick concluded that the team suffered significantly in wide defensive areas.

This season, he has attempted to compensate with high pressing and an advanced defensive line – a strategy that has worked well at times but has also exposed certain weaknesses like Tuesday’s game against Atletico Madrid.

While adjustments will be made, the coaching staff believes that signing a specialist full-back would provide a much-needed boost.

Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde remain undisputed starters and have played nearly every game. Their backups, Hector Fort and Gerard Martin, have had opportunities but still require more experience at the top level.

Barcelona have already begun planning for the next season, and Deco is well aware of the team’s shortcomings. The primary objectives remain a world-class left-winger and a versatile full-back.

At this stage, it is unclear whether Barça will have the financial flexibility to make signings, but the sporting department is exploring options before making a final decision.