FC Barcelona faces a decisive winter: Flick demands two signings now

The German coach has informed the Blaugrana board that he needs signings to lift the team.

Javier Parra Peña | 28 Nov 2025 | 00.00
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FC Barcelona facing a decisive winter: Flick demands two signings now
FC Barcelona facing a decisive winter: Flick demands two signings now

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FC Barcelona faces the upcoming weeks with a clear demand from their coach: strengthen the defense with a reliable center-back and a competitive right-back.

Hansi Flick's insistence is a response to structural weaknesses displayed by the team in the first part of the season. Let's dissect the keys behind these demands and what could happen in the winter transfer market.

Hansi Flick's focus on FC Barcelona's central defense

Flick deems the arrival of a center-back essential, one who brings experience, physical solidity, and the ability to secure a starting position from day one. Íñigo Martínez's departure left a difficult void to fill, and that position has not been clearly reinforced yet. 

Among the names being closely monitored is Nico Schlotterbeck, favored by Flick for his combative profile and Bundesliga experience. English defender Marc Guéhi has also been mentioned as a lower-cost alternative, possibly available on a free transfer in the summer. Flick has made it clear that he is not seeking young promises or long-term bets: what he needs is immediate defensive stability.

FC Barcelona facing a decisive winter: Flick demands defenders now

Urgency in the right-back position: more competition for Koundé

The club also needs to reinforce the right-back position. The performance of the current starter, Jules Koundé, does not convince Flick as the sole reliable option. The sports management is evaluating different options, whether offensive or defensive profiles, to create genuine competition. Flick is looking for a versatile player who can perform immediately.

The push to bolster the full-back defense also aims to balance the squad without overburdening the central defense, a situation that led to issues after the departure of the starting center-back.

The economic crossroads and key decisions at FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona's dilemma is not solely sporting; economic constraints weigh on every step. Despite nearing compliance with the 1:1 rule, any signings will depend on prior departures. Flick knows that the club can only make signings if they free up wage mass. The most viable option would involve a sale or loan. Current speculations focus on potential exits of high-earning players or those no longer central to the plans. This scenario dictates the timing of reinforcements: perhaps waiting until the summer transfer window.

Meanwhile, Flick considers internal alternatives, once again banking on the versatility of players like Gerard Martín or a central defensive partnership from the academy—Pau Cubarsí and Eric García—although they are not convincing as immediate reinforcements. The German coach has emphasized that the priority is not strengthening the attack or creativity; the real focus is on the defensive line. This reveals a clear commitment to restoring defensive firmness, rather than just adding offensive talent.

FC Barcelona is experiencing a critical winter. Hansi Flick demands defensive urgencies, but the delicate financial situation necessitates precise moves. The challenge lies in balancing necessary signings with budgetary responsibility. If they successfully manage exits and negotiations, the club could strengthen its defense. Otherwise, they may have to settle for internal adjustments. The fans are watching with anticipation.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El FC Barcelona ante un invierno decisivo: Flick exige dos fichajes ya