Hector Fort is back at FC Barcelona after spending last season on loan at Elche. His clear objective is to demonstrate to coach Hansi Flick that he deserves a place in the first team for the upcoming season.
The young right-back does not want another temporary move and plans to use the preseason period, starting July 13, to prove his value in a position where Barcelona currently lacks depth.
During the preseason training camp in England, the team will play two friendly matches, giving Fort a chance to gain match rhythm and show what he offers in competitive situations, which is often decisive for coach decisions.
The right-back role is one of the few areas in Barcelona's squad with no natural backup. Last season, Flick mainly relied on Jules Kounde. When Kounde was unavailable, players like Eric Garcia or Ronald Araujo had to cover at right-back.
Kounde’s future is uncertain — Barcelona are not actively seeking to sell him but would consider an interesting offer. For Fort, this means he needs to be ready to step up, either as Kounde's backup or as part of a wider defensive reshuffle.
Fort benefits from an advantage at the start of preseason since other candidates are still away on international duty. This provides him with a valuable opportunity to compete for a squad place.
Having talent, personality, and knowledge of the club, Fort’s next challenge is to prove to Flick that he is more than just a promising academy product — he can be a reliable option for a long season.
