As Barcelona’s pre-season training kicks off, the focus is on preparing the squad for the upcoming season, especially for those players not involved in the European Championship, Copa America, or Olympic Games. With Hansi Flick at the helm, the evaluation of players and decisions on the final squad composition is already underway.
FC Barcelona Pre-Season Training: Evaluations, Formations, and Potential Starting XI
Player Evaluations and Squad Decisions
The pre-season serves as an opportunity for Hansi Flick and his backroom team, along with sporting director Deco, to assess the current squad. As more players return, the coaching staff will finalize which players will remain for the next season. Not all will be retained, and even those who stay might not form part of the ideal starting XI.
Defensive Line-Up
Marc-Andre ter Stegen remains the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for the next season. His stellar performance and consistency make him the best candidate, with Inaki Pena as a reliable reserve.
Formation Dilemma: 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1?
Hansi Flick’s preferred formation at Barcelona is yet to be seen. Whether he sticks with the classic 4-3-3 or switches to his favored 4-2-3-1, Pau Cubarsi is expected to hold one of the central defensive positions. The surprise could be his partner, with options like Eric Garcia, who has shone at Girona, and Mikayil Faye vying for the spot.
Ronald Araujo, typically a key defender, is sidelined for four months due to injury and won’t be back until November. This leaves Jules Kounde as an automatic starter, whose position—right-back or central defense—depends on Hansi Flick’s tactical choice. The squad also includes Andreas Christensen, Inigo Martinez, and Hector Fort, adding depth to the defensive roster.
Midfield Dynamics
In the midfield, Frenkie de Jong is a pivotal player, often initiating moves with his aggressive pressing and forward runs. His contributions are expected to be crucial once he recovers from injury.
Key Midfielders:
- Frenkie de Jong
- Gavi and Pedri: Both could start, emphasizing the ‘made in La Masia’ approach.
- Ilkay Gundogan: His experience and ability to manage games make him a valuable asset, potentially benching Pedri in the process.
Fermin Lopez, Marc Casado, and Sergi Roberto are also in the mix, each looking for their opportunities to shine. Additionally, signing a pivot remains a priority, with Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad being a potential target.
Attacking Options
In the attack, Lamine Yamal secured the right-wing position. On the left, persistent rumors suggest Nico Williams might join, while Robert Lewandowski remains the central striker despite a dip in form last season.
Forward Line Considerations:
- Ferran Torres: Likely to stay.
- Raphinha: Could be sold.
- Joao Felix: Unlikely to return.
- Vitor Roque: Expected to be loaned out for a season.
Ansu Fati, back in training, is subject to an individual plan by Hansi Flick. If he convinces the new manager, he might start from the bench but could work his way into the starting XI over time.
Potential Starting XI
When everyone is fit, Hansi Flick’s ideal starting XI for Barcelona could look like this:
Marc-Andre ter Stegen:
Jules Kounde – Ronald Araujo – Pau Cubarsi – Alejandro Balde:
De Jong – Gavi:
Lamine Yamal – Gundogan/Pedri – Nico Williams:
Robert Lewandowski
