Flick’s Defensive Concerns and Fernandez’s Potential Departure from Barcelona

In December, Barcelona’s manager, Flick, acknowledged the club’s need for defensive reinforcements due to Andreas Christensen’s knee injury. Although Ronald Araujo has returned from his personal break aimed at improving his mental well-being, Flick remains keen on securing additional backup.

“Are we considering a defender in the January transfer window? We will see. I intend to discuss this with Deco, possibly tomorrow, but not today. My primary concern is ensuring Andreas (Christensen) returns to full fitness,” Flick remarked.

As January commenced and the severity of Christensen’s injury was confirmed, Flick communicated a direct message to the club’s board.

He stated, “I have had discussions with my staff, and Deco and I frequently consult with each other. We believe that once Ronald [Araujo] is back, we will possess strong alternatives at centre-back. Joao can play on both flanks, providing us with good options. However, while discussions about acquiring a centre-back are ongoing, I believe it is more prudent to focus on signing a high-quality player who can also enhance our offensive capabilities.

“In the past two years, we have faced circumstances requiring us to be strategic in our player acquisitions. Unlike other clubs that can invest hundreds of millions in new signings, we are fortunate to see our young players developing and progressing. We now have the chance to bring in a veteran player, and I would welcome his addition.”

Indeed, Barcelona acted swiftly to secure the loan signing of full-back Joao Cancelo from Al-Hilal. However, they may be on the brink of losing an exciting prospect in Fernandez. Reports from Spanish outlets Sport and Mundo Deportivo suggest that the 18-year-old is likely to depart from the La Liga leaders this month in search of more first-team opportunities. Despite having made five appearances for the senior team this season, Fernandez appears eager to accrue more playing time elsewhere.

Barcelona’s director of football, Deco, has reportedly been working to renew Fernandez’s contract, which is set to expire in the summer of 2027. Nevertheless, Fernandez has indicated his intention to leave. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, clubs such as Manchester City, Chelsea, and Borussia Dortmund are in pursuit of the young talent, with Paris Saint-Germain currently leading the race. While positive discussions have taken place, no agreements have been finalized at this stage. Additionally, with Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo ahead of him in the number 10 position at Barcelona, Fernandez faces a challenging path to consistent playing time under Flick.

In response to these developments, Flick has expressed his frustration over Fernandez’s potential exit from Barcelona. The former Bayern Munich manager has developed a strong appreciation for the midfielder’s abilities. He included Fernandez in Barcelona’s pre-season tour to Japan and South Korea last summer and provided him with his debut this season, making this situation a significant disappointment for the Blaugrana manager. Flick feels that the club is allowing a promising talent to slip through their fingers.

In a press conference on Saturday, the German tactician emphasized, “To play for Barcelona, one must give everything… 100%. That is my message to everyone currently with us or considering joining in the future. The same applies to the La Masia youngsters training with the first team. They must be fully committed to defending these colors. I do not want anyone who does not share this commitment.”

It remains uncertain whether Barcelona will succeed in retaining Fernandez or if he will indeed make a January exit. Following these updates regarding his future, it will be intriguing to observe his participation in the upcoming matches against Real Sociedad, Slavia Prague in the Champions League, and Oviedo in the league.