Few squads in Europe can boast the midfield that Barça has for next season. With De Jong, Pedri, Gavi, Marc Casado, Marc Bernal, Fermín, and Dani Olmo, the blaugrana club has a line-up of top-level midfielders.
In terms of individual quality and potential, Barça has in its ranks a midfield capable of controlling the pace of any match.
Overbooking in the engine room
However, having so much talent also presents a major challenge for Flick. Seven footballers for only three real positions in the team's usual system is a real puzzle. The German coach will have to manage minutes, egos, and expectations without compromising the balance of the locker room.
The competition will be fierce from day one, although Flick supports rotation, keeping everyone satisfied will be practically impossible. Some will be left out of many matchday squads and others will go from being undisputed starters to having a more secondary role. The emotional and sporting management of the group will be key so that this abundance doesn't become a problem.
Departure on the horizon?
In this situation, some voices close to the club are already suggesting that it might be necessary to lighten the squad. The possibility of a sale would also help improve the club's finances, which still needs to generate income in order to make signings. In that context, one of the names being mentioned most is Fermín.
The Andalusian midfielder has attracted the interest of several major European clubs after his great season. That's why many see his departure as an opportunity to cash in without weakening the squad too much.
Fermín won't give up
However, according to El Nacional, Fermín isn't considering a departure. The player is fully determined to stay at Barça and fight for a place in the starting eleven. He has a contract, confidence in his abilities, and the feeling that this could be his definitive year in the first team.
He is convinced that he can compete on equal terms with any of his teammates for a spot in the starting line-up. His determination, his energy on the field, and his ability to reach the opponent's box make him believe that he can become an indispensable piece for Hansi Flick. For now, the Andalusian isn't thinking about anything other than succeeding at Camp Nou.