According to the Spanish press, the arrival of Hansi Flick at FC Barcelona is becoming clearer. AS even claims that an agreement in principle has been reached between the Blaugrana club and the 59-year-old German coach to take over from Xavi. The Catalan press confirms the acceleration of negotiations, while being a little more cautious.
FC Barcelona may have its new coach. According to the Spanish press, Hansi Flick is now in pole position to take over from Xavi this summer. AS even claims that an agreement in principle was reached between the German coach and the Blaugrana club during a meeting held on Wednesday in London. The Madrid media mentions a two-year contract. Deco, the sporting director of Barça, and Bojan Krkic, member of management (in charge in particular of the development of training), would have participated in this meeting. Just like Pini Zahavi, Hansi Flick’s agent.
The former Germany coach, without a job since last September, has been in the sights of FC Barcelona for several months. President Joan Laporta, who has excellent relations with Pini Zahavi, would appreciate his profile. Eager to join the Camp Nou, the 59-year-old coach would have refused an offer from Chelsea to take over from Mauricio Pochettino. He has already started to learn Spanish and immerse himself in the tactical culture of Barça.
‘The favorite to replace Xavi’
But before confirming the possible arrival of Hansi Flick, Barça will first have to manage the departure of Xavi and his staff. Nothing should be announced before the trip to Sevilla FC on Sunday (9 p.m.), on the last day of La Liga. Xavi should meet his managers at the start of next week to talk in particular about his financial compensation and that of his deputies. His departure should then be ratified on Thursday by the board of directors.
In the meantime, the Catalan media confirm the acceleration of negotiations with Hansi Flick, being a little more cautious for the moment. Mundo Deportivo speaks of an “offensive” on the one “who has become the favorite to replace Xavi”. The pro-Barça newspaper explains, however, that Wednesday’s exchanges between the different parties took place on the telephone, even if Deco and Bojan were present in London. The echoes of these discussions would still be positive and the prospect of seeing the ex-Bayern Munich coach arrive at Barcelona would have gained weight in recent hours.
The Mark option in back up
Same impression for Sport, who affirms that the negotiations left all participants with a good feeling. During his discussions with Deco and Bojan Krkic, Hansi Flick reportedly spoke about the club’s future talents, his possible contract and his overall vision for the team. The German technician would now hope for a favorable and rapid outcome in order to be able to get to work in his new outfit. Sport specifies that the Mexican Rafael Marquez, in charge of the reserve, remains an option considered by the management of Barça, even if Flick appears today as the No. 1 candidate.
