The recently concluded season not withstanding, what can fans expect from Barça come August? Here is a deep dive.
For FC Barcelona and culés, the 2023/24 season was by and large underwhelming, below expectations. Reaching the quarterfinals of the Champions League is one of the few positives that can be highlighted. A lot of youngsters also made their debuts and performed to their level best. Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Pau Cubarsi and Hector Fort are among the revelations of the season. In addition, Brazilian Vitor Roque got to join the team in January.
Now, with the season wrapped up, looking forward to the new season, there is a new sheriff in town. Coach Hansi Flick. One of the only two coaches to have won a sextuple in their coaching career. There is expected to be a few changes in the roster as well as a slight shift in tactics. Working hand in hand with upper management, Flick is expected to bring back the excitement to sit down and enjoy a Barça match.
A lot of rumors have already been floated with regards to team reinforcements. The central defensive midfield and the left wing are some of the positions most likely to see additions. Flick’s style has been known to incorporate two defensive midfielders and as such, one of the names making waves has been La Reale’s Mikel Merino. For the left wing, Athletic Club’s Nico Williams has been mentioned a lot. However, a lot depends on the Financial Fair Play room that Barca is afforded.
In addition to potential new players, according to the latest information, the club would like to retain the services of the Joaos and like the previous season, line up some more talent from La Masia. Enough to make up for any depth issues arising from unforeseen circumstances as well as rotational purposes. Alejandro Balde was heard in no uncertain terms letting the coach know that he’s ready for the pre-season and Gavi is also set to make his return into the new season. Although no particulars regarding the specific time of his return have been set yet, his recovery seems to be on track.
Barca is yet to state its decision regarding loaned out players Pablo Torre and Eric Garcia who had a fantastic season with Girona. Ansu Fati (Brighton and Hove Albion), Clement Lenglet (Aston Villa) and Sergino Dest (PSV Eindhoven) are also expected to be back in Barcelona, reportedly. Julian Araujo (UD Las Palmas) is already back. He was recently spotted supporting Barca Atletic from the stands and will be with Barcelona for the foreseeable future.
With potential ins, comes potential outs. The futures of Marcos Alonso, Oriol Romeu and Sergi Roberto are still unclear. The coach will make most of the decisions probably after the Euros tournament. During and after the pre-season games, set to happen in the United States.
The goals for next season remain virtually the same as the previous one. Win as many games as it takes to win La Liga, Copa del Rey, Supercup and the Champions League. The effort will need to be consistent and with the changes already seen and expected, Barça should be able to mount a good campaign. Barring any surprises. FC Barcelona, being the giant it is, will be expected to at the very least to compete. Maybe register a few trophies at the end of the season. But like everything sport, it’s a waiting game. Everyone is cautiously optimistic. Let’s go Barça.
