Hansi Flick weighs midfield overhaul as Barcelona eyes balance ahead of new season

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is considering reshuffling the team’s midfield lineup as the squad enters a new phase of tactical evolution. 

With the Catalan side boasting a deep midfield roster, Flick faces the challenge of trimming and fine-tuning his options ahead of the upcoming campaign. Pedri and Frenkie de Jong remain Flick’s first-choice picks, but the competition behind them is intensifying.

Among those fighting for a spot are Marc Casado, Fermin Lopez, Marc Bernal, Dani Olmo, and Gavi. The situation is further complicated by the possibility of Raphinha switching roles.

Should Barcelona sign a new winger, the Brazilian could be deployed as an attacking midfielder to add more creativity and depth to the midfield.

Marc Casado appears to have secured a future at the club, despite earlier transfer speculation. The 20-year-old is set to sign a contract extension until 2030.

Flick reportedly appreciates Casado’s composure, high work rate, and positional flexibility, all of which make him a valuable asset in a crowded midfield.

Fermin Lopez is another name attracting attention. The 22-year-old was linked with a possible move away from Barcelona, but Flick has intervened to block any sale.

The coach has been impressed by Lopez’s intensity in training and believes he could play a key role in the squad rotation this season.

Meanwhile, Marc Bernal’s situation is more uncertain. The 18-year-old is recovering from an ACL injury but is expected to sign a new deal through 2029. His raw potential has caught Flick’s attention, but his path to regular minutes will depend on fitness and form.

With Oriol Romeu not in Flick’s plans, and a possible departure of a centre-back and veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, the club’s overall structure is likely to shift.

The arrival of new signings Joan Garcia (goalkeeper) and Roony Bardghji (winger) has already begun to shape the squad differently. PSG has shown interest in both Casado and Lopez, but Barcelona has reportedly placed a minimum price tag of €130 million for the pair.