Hansi Flick has begun to outline Barça's first moves for the next season. The German coach is clear that there are footballers who don't fit into his team idea. Some of them already know they won't continue beyond June.
The summer market will be key to balancing the squad. Flick and Deco are already working on necessary departures to lighten the wage bill and make room for new signings. The targeted players are those who haven't delivered the desired level.
Christensen Doesn't Recover and the Defense Is Defined
One of the major constraints is Andreas Christensen's physical condition. The Danish center-back hasn't managed to recover, and his future also raises doubts within the club. In this context, Flick wants to close the chapter of discards as soon as possible.
With Pau Cubarsí consolidated and Araújo as the leader of the defense, there is no room for profiles that don't contribute regularly. Íñigo Martínez will be important again, and the club wants to strengthen other priority positions. Therefore, significant moves are being prepared.
Deco Already Works on Parallel Operations
The first player to leave Barça is an old protégé of Xavi. His performance this season has been disappointing, and his attitude hasn't convinced the new coaching staff either. Flick hasn't given him minutes for weeks.
His departure seems certain. The club hopes to recover part of the investment made and find him a place in another LaLiga team or abroad. The decision is already made, and there is no turning back.
The second case is that of a midfielder who aimed high but hasn't met expectations. Neither in the first team nor elsewhere has he shown regularity or evolution. His role is currently completely irrelevant to the coaching staff.
His entourage acknowledges that a departure is best for all parties. Barça hopes to include him in some operation or secure a loan with a purchase option. He won't wear the blaugrana again while Flick is on the bench.
They Already Have Names and Departures Defined
The sports management considers these departures a priority to free up space in the squad. Additionally, they will allow strengthening more needed areas like the right-back or left-wing. The club needs liquidity and rotation.
Joan Laporta supports Flick's decisions. The coach has free rein to build the team his way and leave behind the burdens inherited from the previous era. The goal is clear: a short and committed squad.
Eric García will be one of the first to leave. His versatility hasn't been enough to convince the German coach. Real Sociedad has already knocked on his door.
Pablo Torre will also say goodbye. Neither in his loan nor with the first team has he managed to settle. Ansu Fati, the most media-exposed of the three, has definitively lost his place: he doesn't count, and a destination will be sought for him in the summer.