The planning for next season is already underway in the offices of FC Barcelona. With the consolidation of Hansi Flick on the bench, decisions regarding the squad for the upcoming season are beginning to take shape. One of the first steps has been the preparation of a list of departures that the first team will undergo.
The German coach has communicated to Joan Laporta and his intentions regarding the players who are not in his plans, in search of a renewal in several key positions. Although some departures were predictable, there are a couple of names that have surprised both inside and outside the locker room. The restructuring will not only affect players with less prominence this season, but it could also mean the farewell of important figures in recent years.
Significant Changes at the Club
According to the latest information circulating around Barça, among the first discards are Iñaki Peña and Héctor Fort. The goalkeeper, who was once considered a reliable alternative to Ter Stegen, has lost his place, which has ultimately sealed his future as a player for FC Barcelona. On the other hand, the lack of minutes in Fort's case makes a loan seem like the best option to continue his progression.
Eric García and Andreas Christensen are added to these names. The former has performed well when given opportunities, but the competition in the defensive line puts his continuity in doubt, while the Dane has spent the season injured. Additionally, Flick has also decided to dispense with players who haven't managed to earn his trust in the offensive zone, such as Ansu Fati or Pablo Torre.
Uncertainty with Key Players
As expected, the club's intention is to take advantage of these departures to strengthen the squad with players who fit Flick's idea. However, just as there are expected departures, there are also bigger surprises on the list of Barça's departures, and these are Ronald Araújo and Ferran Torres. In the case of the Uruguayan center-back, injuries have affected his regularity, and his continuity is not guaranteed.
Meanwhile, Ferran Torres has fulfilled his role as a game-changer this season. But Flick believes that his departure could facilitate the arrival of a forward with a profile more suited to his scheme. Although his future is not yet defined, Barça is open to listening to offers for him.