Barcelona’s new era under German tactician Hansi Flick is moving swiftly into a decisive phase as the club begins preparations for the 2025/2026 season. After a highly successful debut campaign that saw the Catalan giants win a domestic treble, Flick is now reportedly reshaping his squad — and that process has begun with the submission of a list of six players marked for departure.
According to reports from Spanish outlet El Nacional, the 60-year-old manager has handed a list of players to Sporting Director Deco, identifying individuals who do not fit his tactical blueprint for the future of the club.
Flick’s First Major Call: Who’s on the Exit List?
The six players Flick reportedly wants to move on from include a surprising mix of young prospects and established names:
- Ronald Araújo
- Ansu Fati
- Pau Víctor
- Héctor Fort
- Iñaki Peña
- Pablo Torre
While some exits may have been anticipated, the inclusion of fan-favorites like Ronald Araújo and Ansu Fati has sparked intense discussion within the fanbase and among football pundits.
Araujo and Fati Head the List
Uruguayan centre-back Ronald Araújo has been a defensive mainstay for Barcelona in recent seasons. However, his compatibility with Flick’s high defensive line and quick-passing system has come into question. The German manager reportedly believes that Araujo, while physically dominant, lacks the ball-playing finesse needed to implement his tactical approach.
Meanwhile, Ansu Fati, once hailed as Lionel Messi’s natural successor and the club’s next attacking jewel, has struggled with form and fitness. A series of injuries and inconsistent performances during loan spells have significantly dented his prospects. Flick is believed to have opted against reintegrating him into the squad for the upcoming campaign.
Youngsters Set to Depart
Pau Víctor, Héctor Fort, and Pablo Torre—all products of La Masia—were expected to play support roles in the new Barcelona project. But with Flick pushing for a streamlined squad focused on experience and immediate impact, these players could find themselves loaned out or sold with buy-back clauses.
Iñaki Peña, Barcelona’s long-serving backup goalkeeper, is another player set to leave. With Marc-André ter Stegen remaining the undisputed first-choice and potential summer reinforcements coming in, Peña’s chances of playing time are minimal.
Flick’s Vision for Barça 2.0
Appointed in mid-2024 following the departure of Xavi Hernández, Hansi Flick arrived at the Camp Nou with a clear directive: to return Barcelona to the summit of Spanish and European football.
He has already delivered in style. In just one season, Flick led Barça to a domestic treble, lifting the La Liga title, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. The team also made a strong run in the UEFA Champions League, reaching the semi-finals and reigniting hopes of European glory.
Speaking after clinching the league title, Flick said: “This club has a special spirit. But success must never lead to complacency. We are building for long-term excellence, and that means tough decisions.”
He added: “Every player must align with our goals — technically, tactically, and mentally.”
Sporting Director Deco Backs the Manager
Barcelona’s sporting director Deco, a former club legend himself, has fully endorsed Flick’s plans.
In an interview earlier this month, Deco stated: “Hansi brings a level of discipline and precision that we admire. Our summer transfer strategy will be focused on adding players that suit his style, while also being mindful of our financial structure.”
With Barcelona still navigating financial fair play constraints, the sale or loan of fringe players could help the club raise valuable funds while trimming the wage bill.
Fans React: Shock and Support
While many supporters have applauded Flick’s boldness, the inclusion of names like Araujo and Fati has sparked fierce debate on social media.
“Letting Araujo go feels like a mistake,” tweeted one user. “He’s a leader and still has plenty to offer. But I trust Flick’s vision.”
Another fan commented: “Fati deserves another chance, but the injuries have clearly taken a toll. Maybe a move is best for him and for Barça.”
Transfer Targets and Reinforcements
Reports indicate that Barcelona is eyeing reinforcements in key areas. A ball-playing centre-back, a versatile winger, and a creative midfielder are believed to be on Flick’s wishlist.
Names like Joshua Kimmich, Dani Olmo, and Aymeric Laporte have surfaced as potential targets, although budget limitations may force the club to focus on free agents or structured deals with deferred payments.
Barça is also expected to promote talent from La Masia, with Marc Guiu and Noah Darvich tipped for increased roles next season.
What’s Next?
With the summer transfer window opening in June, fans can expect a flurry of activity at Camp Nou. The board is determined to back Flick with the resources he needs to implement his vision and challenge both domestically and in Europe.
As Barcelona looks to build on a season of resurgence, the focus remains clear: sustainability, competitiveness, and a return to footballing dominance.
