Hansi Flick’s most pressing problem at Barcelona right now | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is currently facing a major selection dilemma in defence. With four of his five central defenders available for selection, the competition for the two starting spots has intensified.

Flick now has multiple options at his disposal, making it difficult to settle on a fixed defensive pairing as the season reaches its crucial stages.

The battle for a place at the heart of Barcelona’s defence has become one of the most intriguing aspects of the team’s setup.

In fact, Flick has experimented with five different centre-back pairings in as many matches. This is in stark contrast to the stability seen throughout 2024 when Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez formed a rock-solid partnership.

The duo started 22 out of 25 games together, with their pairing being disrupted on only three occasions.

Things have now changed

Hansi Flick has so many options in defence. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

However, the scenario has shifted dramatically due to two key reasons. Firstly, Ronald Araujo has returned to action. His comeback was highly anticipated, and Flick now has the option to reintegrate him into the squad.

Secondly, Eric Garcia’s growing influence has altered the defensive hierarchy. Earlier in the year, he was barely considered for a centre-back role and was primarily deployed as a defensive midfielder.

However, his performances have improved significantly, leading Flick to block his departure during the last transfer window.

Rotation in defence

Flick has rotated his defender recently. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

With more players available, Flick has taken a rotational approach to find the most reliable defensive pairing for the decisive part of the season.

Over the last five matches, he has tested different combinations: Cubarsi and Martinez against Rayo Vallecano, Araujo and Martinez against Sevilla, Garcia and Cubarsi against Valencia, Araujo and Cubarsi against Alaves, and Araujo alongside Garcia against Atalanta.

Additionally, in each of these matches, Flick has made at least one in-game substitution involving a centre-back, further underlining his search for the ideal duo.

It is evident that Flick is fostering internal competition to identify the best defensive setup. More adjustments could be on the way, especially with Andreas Christensen nearing a return from injury.

Who will continue and who will not?

Andreas Christensen is facing uncertain future at Barcelona. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Beyond the tactical aspect, Barcelona’s centre-backs are also playing for their long-term futures. Their performances in the coming months will influence decisions taken by the club and the players themselves regarding their stay at the club.

At present, only two defenders seem guaranteed to be part of next season’s squad: Pau Cubarsi and Martinez.

Beyond these two, there are several question marks. Araujo recently renewed his contract, but it includes a release clause allowing him to leave in the summer for €70 million.

Garcia’s case is also uncertain. After spending last season on loan at Girona, he was on the verge of another departure in the winter transfer window. While he has been more involved in recent weeks, his long-term future remains undecided.

If his game time diminishes again, he might seek an exit in the summer. Meanwhile, Christensen is facing the most difficulty in securing a place in the squad. With one year left on his contract, Barcelona are expected to sell him to generate funds.

What about the reinforcement?

Barcelona are interested in Jonathan Tah. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

Barcelona are also monitoring potential reinforcements, with Jonathan Tah emerging as a key target. The German international is currently waiting in the background, as the club has assured him that they will not proceed with any moves without keeping him informed.

If Barcelona offload any centre-backs, Tah will be their primary defensive signing, especially since he would arrive on a free transfer.

With so much uncertainty surrounding the centre-back department, Flick’s upcoming choices will be crucial.

The defensive setup in the final stretch of the season could determine not only Barcelona’s success in major competitions but also the long-term composition of the squad.