Barcelona began preparations for the 2026/27 season on July 13, with the defense presenting the most questions for head coach Hansi Flick. Following the two-year contract extension of Andreas Christensen, the squad has four senior centre-backs: Pau Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, and Christensen himself. Yet, the club is still considering signing another centre-back depending on potential departures within this group.
Attention also centers on youth and positional shifts. Gerard Martin, initially a natural left-back, made strong impressions as a centre-back last season, leading the staff to consider him primarily as a central defender moving forward. Academy graduate Alvaro Cortes, having debuted with the first team, will also be assessed during pre-season for a possible senior squad role.
On the right flank, Jules Kounde remains the undisputed first choice, with the player unwilling to leave despite external interest. Backup options include the versatile Eric, alongside two youngsters, Xavi Espart—who recently helped Spain win the U19 Euros—and Hector Fort, returning from a loan at Elche. Their readiness to step in behind Kounde will be tested in pre-season.
The left-back position is particularly dynamic. Barcelona expects to finalize the signing of Joao Cancelo from Al-Hilal. Flick prefers deploying Cancelo on the left, leveraging his offensive qualities alongside Raphinha and Anthony Gordon. Alejandro Balde is expected to compete for minutes after confirming his intention to remain at the club, while young prospect Jofre Torrents will be closely evaluated for either promotion or loan.
Pre-season will be decisive in shaping Barcelona’s defensive framework. Flick aims to judge all options carefully—from the centre-backs to fullbacks and youth prospects—before finalizing the setup for the new campaign.
