Ansu Fati returned to FC Barcelona in the last summer transfer window after his one-year loan at the Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion. The situation at the Catalan club was quite conducive for Fati’s return, as the managerial shift from Xavi to Flick meant the La Masia graduate would have a chance to impress the new coach and get an important role in the squad.
However, he suffered plantar fasciitis in his foot and was thus unable to travel to the USA for the pre-season tour. Now, almost two months later, he is quite ready to make his return to the pitch and can play some minutes in the upcoming Champions League match between Barcelona and Monaco.
But while Fati’s return to the pitch is quite near, it is still not clear in which position Flick will use this offensive weapon. In a recent press conference, Flick himself clarified that while he is at his best on the left wing, he can also play as a number 9. In fact, this latter position was the one that Fati occupied the most during his time in England with Brighton.
As highlighted by Sport, Flick can also place him in three positions. Firstly, he can play as a center forward, especially as there is no natural replacement for Lewandowski in the squad, even though Ferran Torres and Pau Victor can also play in his stead.
Additionally, he can play on the left wing, his natural position, though Raphinha has been performing exceptionally well there this season. Furthermore, he can also take on the role of an attacking midfielder, where he faces competition from players like Dani Olmo (currently injured), Fermín, Pablo Torre, Pedri, and even Raphinha.
Irrespective of where he plays, the versatility of Fati can turn out to be a really helpful tool for Flick as he would have to regularly rest his important starters in such a congested season.
