Former Barcelona midfielder emerges as leading candidate to replace Hansi Flick in 2028 | OneFootball

It is certain that Barcelona are fully focused on Hansi Flick’s project, but the club’s leadership is already thinking about the future and the potential candidates who can replace the German once he leaves.

In that context, according to AS, there is growing consensus within Barcelona that Cesc Fabregas is the ideal candidate to take over when Flick’s spell at the club eventually comes to an end. 

The former Barcelona midfielder, currently managing Como, has received full backing from the club’s sporting leadership led by Deco.

The report claims Barcelona have already taken preliminary steps to keep the possibility alive. 

In fact, the outlet states that Alejandro Echevarria, Joan Laporta’s close advisor and a key figure behind the scenes, travelled to Como months ago to discuss the long-term possibility of bringing Fabregas back to Camp Nou.

Barcelona see Fabregas as Flick’s natural successor

Barcelona are in touch with Fabregas. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s interest is not based on sentiment alone, as Fabregas has built an impressive reputation during his time at Como, earning praise for his tactical approach, player development and modern style of football. 

Those qualities have convinced key figures at Barcelona that he could eventually be the right man to continue the club’s sporting project.

Right now, the idea is to maintain a relationship with Fabregas and ensure that any future agreement would leave the door open for a return to Barcelona.

For now, though, there is no immediate urgency because Flick remains under contract until 2028 and also has an option to extend his stay by another season. 

However, the Blaugrana hierarchy wants to be prepared well in advance rather than wait until a managerial change becomes necessary.

Luis Enrique ruled out

Fabregas could return to Barcelona in the future. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)

The report also reveals that other high-profile names, such as Luis Enrique, are not viewed as realistic options.

Despite guiding PSG to another Champions League title, Enrique is not considered a likely candidate for a return because both his salary demands and concerns over his management style are major obstacles.

Fabregas, meanwhile, ticks several boxes for Barcelona.

He understands the club’s philosophy, has strong connections to La Masia and is developing into one of the most promising young coaches in European football. 

Just as importantly, his footballing ideas are viewed as compatible with the direction Barcelona want to follow in the coming years.