Hansi Flick’s plan for Tommy Marques at Barcelona revealed

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has already mapped out a first-team future for teenage midfielder Tommy Marques after handing the 18-year-old his senior debut in Saturday’s 3-0 La Liga victory over Real Mallorca at Camp Nou.

Marques, the latest La Masia graduate to step onto the big stage, entered the match as a substitute and admitted afterwards he was “in dreamland” following the comprehensive win. Flick, who has overseen a steady stream of academy promotions since taking charge, was effusive in his praise, telling the player directly that he will be part of the senior squad next season.

According to a report in Diario AS, the German tactician considers Marques “fantastic” and has already communicated his intention to keep the midfielder with the first team for the 2025-26 campaign. The club’s hierarchy share that enthusiasm, so much so that discussions have begun over a fresh contract for the youngster, even though he penned an extension through 2027 just last year.

The urgency stems from mounting interest elsewhere. While no specific suitors have been named, sources close to the club indicate that “they’re not just any clubs,” suggesting elite European sides are monitoring Marques closely. Barcelona are determined to avoid a repeat of the January departure of Dro Fernandez, another highly-rated prospect allowed to leave midway through the season.

With Flick committed to youth development and Marques eager to seize his opportunity, the midfielder’s pathway from academy standout to first-team regular appears firmly in place.