FC Barcelona has officially announced the appointment of Hansi Flick as the new head coach, succeeding Xavi Hernández. The 59-year-old German coach will commit to the team for the next two seasons. Flick will bring along his former collaborators, including goalkeeping coach Toni Tapalović and Marcus Sorg.
During his previous engagements, Hansi Flick demonstrated his coaching prowess, winning a historic sextuplet with Bayern Munich, including a Champions League victory in 2020. Flick, who has been taking Spanish classes for months, expressed his enthusiasm for the new role. “Culés, this is our moment, Força Barça!” he said in Catalan during his presentation video.
Despite his successful tenure at Bayern Munich, Flick faced challenges with the German national team, being dismissed after their early exit from the 2022 World Cup. Nonetheless, his experience and success at the club level make him a promising addition to Barcelona.
Flick's appointment comes after a series of discussions between Barcelona's sports management and the German coach. Deco, Barcelona's football director, highlighted Flick's interest in the current squad and the potential to build a competitive team despite financial constraints.
Joan Laporta, Barcelona's president, marks his third coaching appointment in his second term. Under his previous reign, the club saw stability with coaches like Frank Rijkaard and Pep Guardiola. However, recent years have seen frequent changes, with Flick expected to bring much-needed stability and success.
Flick’s arrival in Barcelona was accompanied by a dinner with Laporta, Deco, and other directors, confirming their shared vision for the club's future. The challenge ahead is substantial, with Barcelona trailing behind Real Madrid in La Liga and facing elimination in the Champions League quarter-finals.
- Hansi Flick is represented by Pini Zahavi, a close ally of Barça president Joan Laporta. This connection facilitated initial talks in London, setting the stage for Flick's recruitment.
- Flick's familiarity with Barcelona players like Ter Stegen, Gündogan, and Lewandowski will potentially aid in a smoother transition and effective team dynamics.