Barcelona’s Four Midfielders Unavailable; Flick’s Season Start Severely Impacted

According to Spanish media reports, Barcelona’s strategy in the summer transfer window appears to have mainly focused on strengthening the forward line, while neglecting the weaknesses in their midfield lineup. This has left new head coach Flick facing a significant challenge.

Reports indicate that Flick will struggle with a shortage of midfield options during pre-season training. Currently, Gavi is out for an extended period due to injury and is not expected to return until October or November. Pedri returned injured after the Euros and will miss the entire pre-season. Frenkie de Jong was unable to participate in the Euros due to an ankle injury, which Dutch coach Koeman described as “extremely serious.” Fermin will be participating in the Olympics.

Moreover, Sergi Roberto’s contract has expired, and his renewal remains uncertain. At present, Barcelona only has Gundogan and Oriol Romeu available for midfield duties. Although Christensen occasionally filled in as a midfielder towards the end of last season, his primary position is center-back, and Barcelona’s defense is also under strain due to Araujo’s long-term injury following the Copa America, Koubacy’s participation in the Paris Olympics, and Iñigo Martínez’s registration issues related to La Liga’s financial fair play regulations.

To alleviate the midfield crisis, Flick has had to call up youth team players for pre-season training and is counting on the return of Pedri, Fermin, and De Jong.

Reports suggest that Gundogan is about to return from his vacation and is expected to take on greater responsibilities within the team. As for Romeu, despite having limited playing time under Xavi last season, he has shown impressive form in pre-season training and has become a focus in the transfer market. Flick plans to give Romeu more playing time and sees potential in him. However, even with Romeu and Gundogan, Barcelona’s midfield depth remains thin.

To address the midfield dilemma, Barcelona may adopt various strategies, including tapping into internal resources and potential moves in the transfer market, to ensure the team has sufficient competitiveness in the new season.