Three spots, seven options – Assessing Hansi Flick’s biggest challenge in 2025/26 season | OneFootball

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has a big task ahead of him as he prepares for the 2025/26 season.

With a midfield stacked with talent, he must find the right balance between giving players enough minutes and keeping the team performing at its best.

The problem? There are only three spots available in midfield, two in the double pivot and one in an advanced role, but seven players who all want to start.

This kind of squad depth can be a blessing, but it also presents a major challenge. Flick will have to rotate wisely, manage egos, and make sure every player feels valued, or he risks unsettling the dressing room.

Pedri and De Jong set the standard

Pedri and De Jong are likely to keep their places. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Last season, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong became the preferred pairing in central midfield. The duo showed great chemistry, especially when playing deeper.

Pedri has evolved into a more complete midfielder, not just helping with build-up play, but also doing his share of defensive work.

De Jong, after dealing with ankle problems, has returned to full fitness and has looked confident again. He also appears close to signing a contract extension, which is a big boost for the club.

Flick’s options in midfield

At the same time, young Marc Bernal started the season with Flick in midfield, showing signs of promise.

While it may take a few more months for him to fully hit his stride after recent injury, he is expected to be a solid option by November.

Marc Bernal will return to full fitness. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Furthermore, Gavi has said he feels most comfortable playing in a deeper midfield role. Now that he is back to full fitness, he won’t be happy sitting on the bench.

He is determined to fight for a starting place, even though Pedri, De Jong, Marc Casado, and Bernal all stand in his way.

The attacking midfield role

Then there is the attacking midfield spot. Right now, Dani Olmo is expected to be the main man behind the striker.

But that does not necessarily mean he can rest easy. This is because Fermin Lopez finished the season strong, scoring an impressive eight goals and 10 assists in 46 matches. He has made it clear that he wants a bigger role, and he is not the only one.

If Barcelona sign another top-class winger this summer, Raphinha may also be moved inside to the attacking midfield role which would complicate the matter, as Gavi could be used there too, giving Flick even more options, and more decisions to make.

All eyes on Hansi Flick

Hansi Flick has a huge task at hand. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

With seven players all pushing to play in just three positions, Flick will need to show top-level man management.

Keeping everyone happy won’t be easy, but it’s necessary if he wants to maintain the team’s unity and high standards.

In short, Barcelona’s midfield is packed with quality, but managing it well will be one of the biggest challenges Flick faces this season.

If he gets it right, it could become one of the team’s greatest strengths. But if not handled carefully, it might become a source of tension.