Barcelona have taken advantage of the preseason to make important decisions regarding the composition of its squad. Hansi Flick, in coordination with Deco, has used training sessions and friendly matches to assess both individual and collective performance, thus shaping who will remain in the project. The defensive line has been one of the most closely watched areas, both because of the number of available players and the need to find a balance between experience, potential, and versatility.
In this regard, some players have seized the opportunity to strengthen their position in the team. Eric García has shown that he can be a reliable piece both as a center-back and as a right-back, which has led to a halt in the search for reinforcements. With solid performance and adaptability, the Spanish international has earned the trust of the coaching staff and the sporting management, who are already working to extend his contract.
A name on the way out
Meanwhile, alongside these renewed displays of trust, there are footballers who haven't managed to secure their continuity.One of them is Andreas Christensen, who, despite keeping a consistent performance and showing notable game reading, isn't among Flick's priorities for next season. Competition in defense is high, and Ronald Araújo's refusal to leave has reduced the options for movement, placing the Dane on the list of possible transfers.
The situation, however, could change with the sale of Iñigo Martínez. His departure would open a spot in defense that could benefit Christensen, although, for now, the club is seriously considering listening to offers. Barça believes that, rather than risk losing him for free later, it would be better to close a transfer if an attractive proposal arrives.
Key conditions for a sale
The board's stance is firm: there will be no discounts. Christensen is valued at about 30 million euros, a figure that Laporta and Deco aren't willing to lower unless it's a move to free up wage bill space. The player continues to attract interest in several European leagues, thanks to his experience and defensive reliability.
Meanwhile, Flick continues to consider options to cover all positions with guarantees. The continuity of Eric García, together with the possible addition of a young player with potential, could give the team a more balanced defense. Everything will depend on how the market moves in the coming weeks, and whether the opportunities that arise allow Barça to finalize a competitive squad without compromising its financial stability.