Flick's Stand-Up Strategy: How Barça Might Patch Its Leaky Backline

Flick's Stands-In Strategy: Barça's Defensive Dilemma

From the stands at Johan Cruyff Arena, German coach Hansi Flick scanned Barcelona's defensive options, seeking internal solutions within the club.

According to Sport, Flick's approach followed a pledge he gave to Barça officials at a London summit before taking charge—that he would look after Barça's own talents.

Flick expressed strong belief in Barça's squad and suggested it needed tweaks without resorting to big-money transfers, while drawing on his deep knowledge of La Masia's brightest prospects as he plans for the day he might lead the Catalan club.

In the year and a half in Barcelona, Flick translated words into action, guiding the team to a notable competitive leap without expensive signings and by making youth the backbone of his project.

Whenever injuries or suspensions bite the first team, the coach has turned to the reserves or even the youth squad, not merely to fill numbers but to give real minutes to the club's rising talents.

This Sunday, taking advantage of a rest for his squad, Flick attended a close-up of Barça's big win over Ibiza Islas Pitiusas, in the 17th round of the Segunda División, as part of his defensive scouting.

Barça's victory opened 2026 on a strong note, with the visitors unable to cope with the Blaugrana's momentum.

Alongside players from the reserve team and La Masia, Flick also kept an eye on Toni Fernández, who had previously earned a Liga appearance, signaling continued attention to homegrown talents.

The German coach clarified his desire to reinforce the back line in January, in light of Andreas Christensen's injury, while Deco, the sporting director, will explore low-cost options in the market, potentially giving academy stars a precious chance to prove themselves.

At the same time, Flick observed from the stands the performances of the academy duo Andrés Cuenca and Mamadou Mbacky in central defense, both delivering high-quality displays.

Cuenca helped build play from the back and even scored for Barça, while the Senegalese Mbacky showed strength in challenges and contributed several decisive tackles, complemented by some forward forays.