Barcelona are preparing major changes for next season, with Hans Dieter Flick in charge, the blaugrana are already starting to define tactical roles for the 2025-26 campaign. One of the players who will experience a key transformation is Ferran Torres. The German coach has already personally informed him of his decision, a U-turn that few expected inside the locker room.
Ferran Torres has been a regular on the wing since his arrival from Manchester City, both on the left and the right, the Spanish international has shown his abilities. Now his role will change radically. According to sources close to the club, Hansi Flick wants to turn Ferran into his new center forward.
This decision responds to several tactical reasons. First, Hansi Flick is looking for a mobile "9" who can link up with the wingers, press high, and have a nose for goal. Ferran fits that profile and the German doesn't see him as a pure winger, but as a modern striker, capable of adapting to that central position. It's not an improvised idea: Flick has already worked with playersof that type at Bayern Munich, such as Thomas Müller or Gnabry.
Ferran Torres is a good replacement
Ferran himself has received the news with a positive attitude, the player is aware that his role in the squad could be at stake. Becoming a real alternative as a center forward opens up new possibilities for him. In a team that is seeking identity and efficiency in the box, the former Valencia CF player could be a key piece if he accepts and executes the change well.
From the club, they also view this move positively, Barça aren't ruling out signing a "9" in the market, but if Ferran works in that position, it could be an internal solution. Economically, the organization is forced to optimize resources. Being able to place the footballer from Foios as a forward would allow them to strengthen other priority positions without spending in that area.
False 9 for Flick
The position change could also relaunch Ferran Torres's career, his performance has been inconsistent since his arrival at Camp Nou, with brilliant moments and others less inspired. Under Flick's leadership, with confidence in a new role, he has the opportunity to reinvent himself. The coaching staff believe he can deliver better numbers in goals and assists as an attacking reference.
Hansi Flick values his intensity, his work off the ball, and his ability to attack spaces, which is why he wants him as a "false nine" or even as an attacking reference in certain matches. The German coach is committed to quick and vertical circulation. In that model, Ferran can shine if he is accurate in front of goal.
Thus, the player's future takes a complete turn, Ferran Torres already knows he won't be just another winger, his new life begins as a forward. An unexpected move that could benefit both Barça and the player himself. Hansi Flick is clear about it: his "9" doesn't have to be the usual one, and Ferran is ready to take on the challenge.