The countdown to Barcelona’s preseason training camp in England has begun, but before the team’s departure, coach Hansi Flick has finalized the status of several players who are not part of his plans for the new season, as part of a squad reshuffle in preparation for the upcoming campaign.
According to press reports, Flick has informed the Barcelona management that he does not require the services of young full-back Héctor Fort, requesting that his future be decided before the start of the training camp, either through a permanent transfer or a loan move that would allow him regular playing time.
Related topics
The report indicated that Fort had previously been given opportunities with the first team but failed to establish himself due to a decline in his defensive performances, in addition to some disciplinary issues that affected his standing with the coaching staff.
The reports added that the German coach places great importance on commitment and discipline both on and off the pitch, which contributed to the player’s limited opportunities before he went on loan to Elche, where he suffered an injury that sidelined him for an extended period and affected his development.
Flick believes Barcelona has sufficient options at right-back, with Jules Koundé, Eric García, and Ronald Araújo all available, in addition to the ongoing efforts to bring João Cancelo back. This makes Héctor Fort’s chances of returning to the first team virtually nonexistent.
Meanwhile, the German coach continues to monitor several rising stars from the La Masia academy. Reports indicate that Xavi Espart has caught Flick’s attention and has become one of the young players most trusted by the coaching staff ahead of the new season.
The preseason training camp in England is expected to provide an opportunity for several promising youngsters to showcase their abilities, while Barcelona continues to finalize the status of players likely to leave as part of Flick’s plan to build a squad better prepared to compete in all competitions.
