Hansi Flick's Barcelona to-do list: Ter Stegen conversation, pursuit of a left winger, assessing youngsters

As the summer sun beats down on Catalonia, a new era is dawning at FC Barcelona. Hansi Flick, the German tactician, steps into the hot seat, tasked with revitalizing a club that has endured a tumultuous few seasons. With pre-season training just around the corner, Flick's initial days will be packed with crucial decisions and conversations that will lay the groundwork for his tenure. His immediate agenda is clear: addressing the future of his key goalkeeper, identifying and securing a vital piece of the attacking puzzle, and thoroughly evaluating the prodigious talent bubbling up from La Masia.

One of Flick’s first and most personal conversations will undoubtedly be with Marc-André ter Stegen. The German goalkeeper, a stalwart between the posts for years, has recently battled injuries and inconsistent form, raising questions about his long-term capacity to be the undisputed number one. Flick, known for his direct communication and high standards, will need to gauge Ter Stegen’s physical and mental readiness, ensuring he aligns with the high-pressing, possession-based philosophy that demands a goalkeeper comfortable playing out from the back. The conversation will not merely be about fitness but also about leadership and the role Ter Stegen sees himself playing in this new chapter. His commitment and clarity will be paramount, as a strong foundation at the back is essential for any successful team.

Beyond individual assessments, the tactical blueprint Flick envisages for Barcelona demands specific profiles, and the pursuit of a left winger stands out as a critical objective. For too long, Barcelona's attack has lacked genuine width, pace, and direct goal threat from that flank. While Lamine Yamal has emerged as a sensation on the right, the balance of the forward line remains skewed. Flick will be looking for a player who can stretch defenses, provide incisive runs, and contribute significantly to goal involvements, alleviating the creative burden on the central midfielders and the right-sided attacker. This acquisition is not just about adding a player; it's about optimizing the entire attacking structure, making Barcelona less predictable and more potent in the final third, all while navigating the club's well-documented financial constraints.

Finally, and perhaps most excitingly, Flick will dedicate significant time to assessing Barcelona’s wealth of young talent. La Masia continues to churn out exceptional prospects, with Pau Cubarsí, Héctor Fort, Marc Guiu, and Fermín López among those who have already tasted first-team action. Flick’s track record, particularly at Bayern Munich, demonstrates a willingness and ability to integrate promising youngsters into the senior squad, fostering their development without overwhelming them. Pre-season provides a unique opportunity for these academy graduates and other fringe players to impress the new coaching staff. Flick will be meticulously evaluating who possesses the tactical intelligence, physical attributes, and mental fortitude to step up and contribute immediately, potentially saving the club millions in transfer fees while staying true to its core identity. This holistic approach to squad building, balancing seasoned professionals with blossoming stars, will be key to Flick's vision for a competitive and sustainable Barcelona.