Every summer, La Masia academy players arrive knowing that pre-season training can completely alter the course of their professional future. For 20-year-old midfielder Brian Fariñas, that defining opportunity has arrived in dramatic fashion after head coach Hansi Flick decided to step in and pause his proposed move to Girona.
Until very recently, the talented graduate seemed to be on his absolute way out of the club. In fact, negotiations between Barcelona and Girona were progressing seamlessly, with both clubs working towards a permanent agreement to allow Fariñas to continue his development in a competitive first-team environment.
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Flick’s Veto: “No Transfer Before My Personal Assessment”
In a surprising turn of events, as reported by Matteo Moretto, Barcelona has temporarily put those discussions on hold. The decision came following an urgent request from Hansi Flick, who wanted Fariñas to remain with the first team during the opening phase of pre-season training.
Instead of undergoing medical examinations ahead of his exit, Fariñas was spotted today on the training pitches at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, working directly under the German tactician. Flick notoriously prefers making his own hands-on assessments rather than relying solely on academy scouting reports.
Fariñas enjoyed an outstanding campaign under Juliano Belletti for Barça Atlètic, earning a stellar reputation for his tactical composure, discipline, and unique ability to control the tempo of games from deep midfield—qualities that Flick now wants to test under first-team standards.
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Girona Kept on Standby as Barcelona Keeps Options Open
Despite the sudden pause, Barcelona has not completely abandoned the transfer operation. The financial framework of the deal remains intact on the table, with previous discussions centering around a transfer fee valued between €1.5 million and €3 million.
Crucially, Barça’s sporting department intends to retain significant control over the player’s future, either by keeping 50% of his economic rights or securing buy-back clauses. Girona understands this stance and remains prepared to act once Barcelona reaches a final decision. For now, the process is paused simply because Flick believes the young midfielder deserves a closer look before any paperwork is officially signed.
