Returning Barcelona loanee hopes of convincing Hansi Flick during pre-season – Report | OneFootball

Hector Fort is heading back to FC Barcelona with a clear objective: convince Hansi Flick that he deserves a place in the first-team squad next season.

After spending last season on loan at Elche, the young right-back does not want another temporary move. His plan is to return, work through preseason, and prove that he can be useful in a position where Barca lacked depth.

According to MARCA, Fort is expected to report back on July 13 before joining Barcelona’s training camp in England. The team are also set to play two friendlies there, giving him a valuable chance to show Flick what he can offer.

That preseason stage could be decisive. For a young player trying to change his status, training well is important, but performing in match rhythm is often what truly convinces a coach.

Kounde’s situation gives Fort a window

The right-back position is one of the few areas in the squad where Barcelona still do not have a natural backup. Last season, Flick mainly relied on Jules Kounde, and when the Frenchman was unavailable, players like Eric Garcia, Ronald Araujo or Marc Casado had to cover there.

That is why Fort’s return makes sense from a squad-building point of view. Barcelona do not need every solution to come from the market, especially when finances remain tight and the academy can provide a profile already familiar with the club’s demands.

Kounde’s future also adds some uncertainty. Barca are not actively trying to sell him, but would study an interesting offer if it came in. That does not mean a departure is expected, but it leaves the door slightly open.

For Fort, the message is simple: be ready. Whether he stays as a backup to Kounde or benefits from a wider defensive reshuffle, his chance will depend on how strongly he starts the summer.

He gets an advantage with a headstart over other right-back options like Kounde, Eric and Araujo and could go toe-to-toe with Xavi Espart during pre-season while the others are still away on international duty.

Fort has talent, personality and knowledge of the club. Now he must show Flick that he is not just a promising academy product, but a reliable squad option for a long season.