FC Barcelona has made changes in its medical and fitness staff: starting July 13, Holger Broich will take over as the main person responsible for the physical preparation of the first team, replacing Julio Tous.
Broich is a trusted collaborator of head coach Hansi Flick, who worked with him during their successful tenure at Bayern Munich, including the 2020 Champions League victory. Broich was previously considered for the Barcelona role two years ago when Flick joined the club. Flick prefers to work with someone he fully trusts, especially following several injury setbacks among players like Raphinha last season.
Julio Tous will no longer work with the first team but will remain at the club. He will focus on elite youth players from both the academy and the reserve team, as well as support other sports sections within Barcelona.
This change reflects the lack of full alignment between Tous and Flick in recent months. Broich’s experience in overseeing physical preparation, including during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, is expected to help improve the team’s fitness and reduce injury relapses.
The adjustment comes ahead of the preseason starting July 13, which will proceed with a reduced first-team squad due to World Cup commitments.
