After a successful first season in charge of FC Barcelona, Hansi Flick doesn't stop. The German coach, who has won La Liga and consolidated a competitive squad, is already thinking about the next big goal:winning the Champions League. He is not alone in that ambition.
Pedri, one of the locker room leaders and a central piece of the project, shares the vision. They both agree that to make the definitive leap in Europe, the team needs to strengthen a key position. One where doubts currently persist and certainties are scarce.
Match against Inter | @FCBarcelona
The goalkeeping position, at the center of the debate
In recent meetings with the board, Flick and Pedri have pointed out the same weak spot. The goalkeeping position has been a concern throughout the season, and they believe that the team can't afford more uncertainty in that area. To compete with the greats, the goal must be secured.
The coaching staff's analysis reinforces this perception. The clubs that have gone far in this edition of the Champions—such as PSG, Bayern, or Inter—have decisive goalkeepers in key moments. That is the difference Flick and Pedri want to bring to Camp Nou.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
Marc-André ter Stegen has been a symbol for years: captain, leader, and reference under the posts. But his recent performance has raised questions. The recovery from his knee injury has been slower than desired, and his level has dropped in the most demanding matches.
In the final stretch of the season, his inconsistency has set off alarms. Flick values his experience, but no longer sees him as untouchable. Pedri, meanwhile, has conveyed to the club his concern about defensive solidity in European competitions.
Ter Stegen | @FCBarcelona
Szczesny, a provisional solution
Wojciech Szczesny arrived in January to offer an immediate alternative. The Pole has generally performed well, but his future remains unsolved. Flick considers him reliable, but not as a long-term solution if Ter Stegen doesn't regain his best form.
There is consensus within the coaching staff that something more is needed: a young goalkeeper with potential, but also with the composure to perform under pressure. Barça's goalkeeping position can't remain open to doubt for another season.
Wojciech Szczęsny | @FCBarcelona
With priorities defined by Flick and backed by the locker room, Deco is already hard at work. He is exploring the market with a specific profile in mind:an agile goalkeeper, with good ball distribution, international experience, and room for growth. It won't be an easy search, but it's a tactical obligation.
Among the names that have appeared on the agenda are Leo Román and Joan García. The latter seems to be close to Aston Villa, which reduces the available options. Goalkeepers in leagues like the Eredivisie and the Bundesliga have also been followed.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
The Champions League, the great obsession
The goal is not just to keep the local level, but to reach higher heights in Europe. Flick has repeated several times that the Champions League is the great obsession. Pedri, as the spokesperson for the young core of the team, has also expressed his desire to truly fight for the "big ears".
They both know that without a solid goalkeeping position, there is no chance to aspire to everything. Matches are won and lost in the areas, and Barça must ensure they have the best possible protection. One more mistake in that position could cost another year without European glory.
There could be changes in the goal | en.carpetasfcb.com
The board has a clear message on the table. Pedri and Flick agree on the essentials: the goalkeeping position needs a guaranteed reinforcement. It is no longer a suggestion; it is a demand.
For Barça to dominate in Europe again, they must start by strengthening their last bastion. And only with a top goalkeeper between the posts can they truly dream of lifting the Champions League.
