Barcelona played one of their most exciting matches of the season against Atlético Madrid. After a 4-4 draw in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final two weeks ago, the next match was expected to be similarly exciting, and it didn’t disappoint. Hansi Flick’s team came back from 2-0 down in just 15 minutes to maintain their lead at the top of La Liga for another week.
According to reports from the Spanish newspaper ‘‘El Nacional‘‘, Hansi Flick has made crucial decisions for next season regarding the futures of three Barcelona players: Ansu Fati, Iñaki Peña, and Pablo Torre. In a clear and direct move, the German coach informed these players that he is not counting on them for next season and that the best option for their careers is to seek an exit from the club. This decision, although difficult, reflects Flick’s intention to improve the team and prioritize players who fit his future project.
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Ansu Fati, previously seen as a potential successor to Leo Messi, has had a difficult season. Frequent injuries and a lack of consistency have affected his performances, and despite his great talent, he has been unable to cement his place in the team. Flick was honest with Fati, emphasizing that the young striker needs playing time and confidence, both of which he won’t get at Barcelona next season. Fati has an attractive transfer market, with clubs from the Premier League and Serie A expressing interest in signing him. A loan or transfer may be the best option for him to regain his form.
Iñaki Peña has also received Flick’s message. With Marc-André ter Stegen as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper and Szczesny developing, Peña knows he won’t get many opportunities. Despite his good performances in some matches, Peña needs playing time to develop, which he won’t get at Barcelona. Clubs from La Liga and other European leagues have already inquired about his situation, and a transfer or loan is likely the best option for him.
Pablo Torre, the 21-year-old midfielder, has not had enough opportunities this season, and Flick believes his departure would be the best option for his development. Torre has talent and vision, but in a midfield stacked with stars such as Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong, he is finding it difficult to get regular playing time. A loan move to La Liga or another European league could be the ideal solution for his development, allowing him to return in the future with greater confidence. Flick’s decision to let these three players go is not random. The German coach is seeking to build a more cohesive and competitive squad, and to achieve this, he needs players who perfectly fit his style of play.
