Hansi Flick has made a move, after a dream season in which Barcelona have won La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup. Now the German coach is already thinking about the next campaign, and he's not holding back. The former German national team coach has drawn up an initial list of players to be released that hasn't gone unnoticed in the Barça locker room or in the offices of the sporting management.
A decision has been made by Hansi Flick, who has already informed the club and the players involved that they're not part of his plans. Among the most notable names are two players: Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen. Both haven't had continuity during the current season, but the coach believes their profiles don't fit what he's looking for in his new defensive line.
In the case of the Uruguayan, his mistakes in key Champions League matches weigh heavily, in addition to his high market value. The club needs to bring in money, and a sale of Araujo could easily approach €80M. Meanwhile, Andreas Christensen hasn't convinced Flick in terms of ball distribution or positional solidity; his profile, although reliable, doesn't seem enough for Barça.
departures in defense
The other players to be released, although more predictable, are still significant. Héctor Fort, who has been a substitute, hasn't managed to break through. Hansi Flick has already chosen to look for a full-back with greater offensive projection. In addition, his youth hasn't been a strong enough argument to earn a spot; the German wants immediate performance.
Pablo Torre won't continue either, who returned from his loan at Girona without managing to convince the new coach. Although the Cantabrian has talent, Barça believe he's still too green to get quality minutes at the top level. The most likely option will be another loan, this time with a purchase option, or even a sale with a buy-back clause.
iñaki peña leaves the club
Finally, Iñaki Peña is also out of the plans, despite having shown reliability as Ter Stegen's backup. Hansi Flick wants stronger and more serious competition for the German goalkeeper, aiming to help him recover his best form. The sporting management have already started to explore options in the market to strengthen that position.
These decisions aren't arbitrary; Flick wants to shape Barça in his own image. For that, it's necessary to do without names that, although beloved by the fans, don't fit into the new model. The coach is committed to a solid unit, with a more dynamic defense and cleaner ball distribution from the back.
At the same time, the club is working on signings, prioritizing profiles with good tactical awareness, defensive aggressiveness, and the ability to adapt to positional play. Hansi Flick has made it clear that he doesn't want projects, but certainties, which is why the sacrifices have started early. Barça are starting a new cycle; although it's painful to say goodbye to certain players, the sporting management understand that the step is necessary.