Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has indicated that while the futures of Marcus Rashford and Robert Lewandowski will be addressed at the season’s conclusion, the club has a clear vision for incoming transfers. Flick also expressed admiration for Gavi’s contributions, amidst speculation about his potential participation in the World Cup.
With the La Liga title secured, Barcelona still has three matches left, starting with an away game against Alaves on Wednesday night.
“Our current objective is to reach 100 points, and to achieve that, we need to win all three remaining games and play well,” Flick stated.
Barcelona’s Transfer Priorities for Next Season
The primary transfer targets for Barcelona this summer are widely believed to be a centre-forward and a centre-back, with reported interest in players like Alessandro Bastoni and Julian Alvarez. When questioned about the clarity of their transfer priorities for the next season, Flick responded:
“Absolutely, and it’s not just me. Deco and I have had extensive discussions about what we can achieve, and for next season, though we haven’t finalized everything.”
“The crucial aspect is the integration of talent from La Masia with world-class players, which is what we already have here.”
Flick on the Futures of Balde, Koundé, Lewandowski, and Rashford
Any significant spending on a centre-forward could cast further doubt on the continued presence of Marcus Rashford and Robert Lewandowski at the club, as their futures remain unconfirmed. Lewandowski has expressed uncertainty about his next move, while Rashford has voiced a desire to stay.
“We need to wait until the end of the season to see what happens. Marcus has contributed a great deal, and his statistics are impressive. Regarding Robert, what can I say? I’ve won every club title with him, so I’m immensely grateful. However, we must analyze the situation and then decide.”
In recent months, it has been reported that Barcelona would be open to offers for Jules Koundé, who was absent from the El Clásico match on Sunday.
“It’s too early to discuss what will happen this season. It’s a very difficult situation. Jules has given a lot to this club and this team, and this decision was incredibly tough, and I know it was hard for him to accept. But he did, and we are one team.”
The same applies to left-back Alejandro Balde, who has seen his starting position taken by Joao Cancelo in recent months.
“Of course, I spoke with him because he was returning from an injury, and the situation was different. Joao has provided a lot for us in these games. With Balde, looking back at last season, he has shown significant improvement. However, we need to support him in this, and that’s what we are doing. He’s a good player, but he needs to take the next step, and we will help him achieve that.”
Flick Praises Gavi’s Leadership
A recurring theme in recent months has been Barcelona’s intention to strengthen their young squad with more experienced leadership through transfers. Flick used this as an opportunity to commend Gavi and other players.
“We have various types of leaders. When Gavi returned after his injury, you could see he is the heart of this team. In every training session he participated in, the quality of training increased for every player. So, he is a leader in that sense. Pedri is a leader with the ball, Eric is a leader. Then we also have the captains – Ronald, Frenkie, Rapha – they are leaders as well.”
“For me, it’s all about on-pitch communication, about understanding the player next to me. I need to feel the responsibility of my position, what’s happening in front of me, to my left or right. When we communicate effectively, it makes things easier for everyone. Sometimes it’s about a matter of one or two metres, and that can lead to a goal. This is absolutely crucial if you aim to reach the highest level. I believe we are on the right track, and we must continue to improve this next season.”
The Catalan club will host Real Betis on Sunday, following their match against Alaves at Mendizorrotza. Much of the discussion has already shifted to their transfer activities post-season, especially after Flick confirmed his continued tenure at the club.