Barça Initiates Talks with Flick, Despite Being Not the Top Choice

According to reports from Germany, Barcelona has engaged in preliminary talks with Hansi Flick, the former Bayern Munich coach. While Flick’s name remains in consideration, he is not the preferred option for the Barcelona leadership at this moment. Sources from Germany indicate that Barcelona has made initial contact with the German coach to assess his willingness to join the club, and Flick has reportedly given a green light to negotiations, as confirmed by ‘Sky Alemania.’ Barcelona has conducted groundwork to gauge the readiness of potential coaches to succeed Xavi, but no concrete steps have been taken.

Flick was among the first coaches to express interest in the Barcelona managerial position once Xavi Hernández confirmed his departure at the end of the season. With limited movement from the Barcelona camp, Flick sought the assistance of agent Pini Zahavi, who shares a strong rapport with Joan Laporta, to facilitate his arrival at the club. ‘Sky Alemania’ reports that some conversations have taken place since then, but no formal negotiations have ensued.

Among the German options, which also include Thomas Tuchel and Nagelsmann as candidates for the Barcelona dugout, Flick raises more uncertainties. His performance with the German national team has been underwhelming, he has limited coaching experience outside his home country, and he is perceived as a coach who doesn’t frequently provide opportunities to young players. Despite these concerns, Flick, a coach with an illustrious track record, remains willing to join, making him not completely ruled out.

Flick is awaiting Barcelona’s decision, expected to be made by the end of March. He recognizes that a potential return to Bayern Munich is unlikely, as the club considers a second stint for the coach unfavorable and has already ruled him out as a replacement for Tuchel at the end of the season.