Hansi Flick has a major decision to make in key position during Barcelona pre-season | OneFootball

Barcelona’s pre-season begins on July 13, and it is going to be important for the Blaugrana, as they look to get their balance right heading into a new season, where they will be expected to dominate in all competitions.

Coach Hansi Flick is expected to work with multiple youngsters during the pre-season, thanks to the World Cup.

This will give him an ideal excuse to assess some of the key areas, including the right-back position, which has appeared as an Achilles heel of sorts.

Espart or Hector Fort?

According to Mundo Deportivo, the German coach faces a difficult decision between two contrasting young candidates: Xavi Espart and Hector Fort.

Espart could be an intriguing option for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Both are expected to feature in pre-season, barring any change of plan, and each offers a different solution for the same role.

Fort, contracted until 2029, spent last season on loan at Elche, where he showcased composure under pressure, good game understanding and tactical discipline, contributing three goals and two assists.

Espart, meanwhile, is a more unpredictable and exciting alternative, and one Flick has spoken about glowingly in the past.

“I like his confidence with the ball; he’s a bit like Philipp Lahm,” Flick said of the young full-back, having previously described him as a very good option when injuries forced Barcelona to look for solutions in defence.

What are Barcelona’s options?

Kounde’s future remains uncertain. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

The two youngsters are far from the only candidates. Jules Kounde remains the established starter, and if no offer arrives and he has no desire to leave, his presence alone could rule out the need for any new signing in the position.

Beyond Kounde, Flick also has the options of Eric Garcia and Ronald Araujo, both of whom can operate on the right flank.

Eric, in particular, is described as something of a wildcard, having impressed whenever called upon, while Araujo has previously featured in that role despite being used there only sparingly.

There is also the potential signing of Joao Cancelo, who would slot in at right-back in his more natural position should Barcelona complete his permanent move from Al-Hilal.

Having so many capable options for a single position could be a welcome problem to have, but Flick must make the right choice.