Hansi Flick has begun to reveal which players are no longer in his plans at Barcelona, as evidenced by recent team selections.
In a surprising move, key players like Frenkie De Jong, Ronald Araújo, and Gavi have seen limited or no playing time, sparking speculation about their futures at the club.
De Jong, Barcelona’s highest-paid player, was left on the bench during the home match against Leganés, raising eyebrows. Similarly, Araújo, despite being medically cleared from injury, hasn’t played a single minute in the past two games.
Flick seems to prefer other defensive options, including Cubarsí, Íñigo Martínez, and a soon-to-return Andreas Christensen. Jules Koundé is also considered a defensive alternative, possibly moving from the flank if needed.
The most puzzling situation involves Gavi, once a guaranteed starter in Barcelona’s lineup. Although cleared from injury almost two months ago, his appearances have been minimal.
Against Leganés, he only came on in the 74th minute, becoming the team’s fourth substitution after Fermín and Ferran Torres had already entered the game. This limited role indicates Flick doesn’t see Gavi as a crucial part of his plans.
Fermín seems to have overtaken Gavi in the midfield rotation, as Flick views them as similar players but prefers Fermín’s style. This development has reportedly frustrated Gavi, who recently extended his contract with the club but now finds himself sidelined. Flick’s decisions suggest he sees Gavi as expendable, despite the player’s previous importance.
Additionally, Ansu Fati and Eric García are expected to be sold in the upcoming winter transfer window, as Flick clearly doesn’t count on them either. Barcelona hopes to secure over €40 million for each player to boost the club’s finances.
Flick appears focused on reshaping Barcelona’s midfield around players like Casadó, Pedri, Marc Bernal, Dani Olmo, and Fermín, leaving Gavi on the periphery. His exclusion from key matches and limited playing time reflect Flick’s tactical choices and the club’s evolving strategy.
With the winter transfer window approaching, changes seem inevitable, and Gavi’s future at Barcelona remains uncertain as he struggles to regain his once-prominent role.
Leave a Reply