Flick faces key decisions in defence ahead of Barcelona’s new season | OneFootball

FC Barcelona officially began preparations for the 2026-27 season today, July 13, with a squad made up of available first-team players, several footballers returning from loan spells, and a number of promising academy talents.

Hansi Flick’s side has already strengthened their attack with the arrivals of Anthony Gordon and, pending official confirmation, Karim Adeyemi.

Meanwhile, the German manager is expected to retain the core of his midfield despite the likely departure of Marc Casado, the defensive unit remains the area with the most unanswered questions, reports Mundo Deportivo.

The centre-back situation

Barcelona recently extended Andreas Christensen’s contract by two seasons, meaning the club currently has four senior centre-backs: Pau Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, and the Dane himself.

Whether that group remains unchanged is still uncertain. Barcelona are considering the possibility of signing another defender, although that could depend on whether one of the current options departs.

Christensen has signed a new contract. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Another player whose role remains to be defined is Gerard Martin. Although naturally a left-back, those inside the club believe Flick views him as a central defender moving forward after his exceptional displays in the role last season.

Academy graduate Alvaro Cortes, who has already made his senior debut, will also be assessed during pre-season as he looks to earn a place in the first-team squad.

Competition at right-back

At right-back, Jules Kounde remains the clear first-choice option. However, it has been suggested that Barcelona would consider offers if a significant bid arrived, although the player has no desire to leave.

Behind him, several candidates are competing for the backup role. Eric remains an option thanks to his versatility.

But Flick also wants to evaluate two younger alternatives: Xavi Espart, fresh from helping Spain win the U19 Euros, and Hector Fort, who returns after a loan spell with Elche.

Left-Back still unsettled

The left-back position also presents important decisions. Barcelona remain confident they will complete the signing of Joao Cancelo from Al-Hilal, although the deal has yet to be finalised.

Barcelona confident of signing Cancelo. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

While Cancelo is capable of operating on either flank, Flick prefers using him on the left, where his attacking qualities could complement players such as Raphinha or Anthony Gordon.

Alejandro Balde is expected to compete for minutes after making it clear he has no intention of leaving the club.

Meanwhile, promising youngster Jofre Torrents will also be closely evaluated before a decision is made on whether he remains with the first team or gains experience through a loan move.

A defining pre-season

The coming weeks will play a decisive role in shaping Barcelona’s defensive structure.

With several positions still open and multiple academy prospects pushing for opportunities, Flick intends to use pre-season to assess every option before finalizing his plans for the campaign ahead.

By the time the season begins, Barcelona’s defensive hierarchy should be considerably clearer, but for now, every possibility remains on the table.