According to Spanish media reports, Barcelona’s summer transfer window strategy seems to have primarily focused on strengthening the attack, neglecting the midfield shortcomings, posing a formidable challenge for new coach Flick.
Reports suggest that Flick will face a shortage of midfield players during the pre-season training. Gavi is out with a long-term injury, expected to return in October or November; Pedri returned from the European Championship with an injury, missing the entire pre-season; Fermin will participate in the Olympics; De Jong missed the European Championship due to an ankle injury, described as “extremely serious” by Dutch coach Koeman.
Moreover, Sergi Roberto’s contract has expired, and his renewal remains uncertain. Currently, Barcelona’s midfield consists of only Gundogan and Oriol Romeu. Although Christensen occasionally played in midfield at the end of last season, his primary position is center-back, and Barcelona’s defense is also facing a shortage of personnel due to Araujo’s long-term injury after the Copa America, Koundé’s participation in the Paris Olympics, and Iñigo Martínez’s pending registration due to LaLiga’s financial fair play regulations.
To alleviate the midfield crisis, Flick had to call up youth team players for pre-season training, hoping for the return of Pedri, Fermin, and De Jong.
According to reports, Gundogan is expected to return after his vacation and is likely to assume a more prominent role in the team. As for Romeu, despite limited playing time under Xavi last season, he has impressed during pre-season training and has even become a focal point in the transfer market. Flick intends to utilize Romeu, recognizing his potential. However, even with Romeu and Gundogan, Barcelona’s midfield depth appears thin.
To address the midfield predicament, Barcelona may adopt multiple strategies, including internal development and possible transfer market moves, ensuring the team’s competitiveness in the upcoming season.
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