Barcelona defender sends another message to Hansi Flick with impressive preseason display | OneFootball

Hector Fort made the perfect start to FC Barcelona’s pre-season by finding the net in the club’s 4-1 victory over CE Europa, strengthening his case to remain part of Hansi Flick’s first-team plans.

The La Masia graduate started at right-back in the behind-closed-doors friendly and scored Barcelona’s second goal with a composed finish after making an intelligent run into the penalty area.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Fort is still fighting for his place in the squad despite returning from a productive loan spell at Elche, with Flick yet to make a final decision on his role for the 2026-27 season.

Fort reported for pre-season training on day one, knowing that every session and friendly would be important.

With several international players still absent, Flick has used the opening weeks of pre-season to closely evaluate those battling for their futures, and Fort has taken full advantage of the opportunity.

His goal against Europa highlighted more than just his attacking instinct.

The young full-back showed the confidence to join attacks while maintaining the energy and work rate that helped him adapt successfully to La Liga during his loan spell at Elche last season.

Although a shoulder injury interrupted part of that campaign, Fort returned strongly and gained valuable top-flight experience that has clearly aided his development.

Barcelona should think carefully before letting him go

Fort may not yet be a guaranteed starter, but performances like this serve as a reminder that Barcelona already possess a talented young full-back who understands the club’s footballing identity.

His biggest strength is not just his technical ability but also his maturity. A season of regular football at Elche appears to have accelerated his development, making him look far more prepared for senior football than he did a year ago.

Competition for places is fierce, and Flick will eventually welcome back several established internationals. Even so, keeping players like Fort could prove important over a long campaign that will demand depth in every position.

Pre-season alone will not decide his future, but his performance has certainly improved his chances.

If Fort continues to perform with this level of confidence and consistency throughout the training camp in England, Barcelona may conclude that the best solution is not another loan but a permanent place in Flick’s first-team squad.