Barcelona are delighted with manager Hansi Flick as things stand, but are thinking about a succession plan already. The German coach has led two successful seasons thus far, winning La Liga in both seasons, and is currently under contract until 2028.
Flick penned an extension last month with an option for a further year, but generally has edged away from the suggestion that he will be at the club long-term. Initially he penned just a one-year deal, before signing a two-year extension last season, and it seems he is conscious of the potential exhaustion that comes with the Barcelona job.
Barcelona identify Fabregas as Flick replacement
One of the names that Barcelona are lining up as a potential replacement is former player Cesc Fabregas. The ex-Chelsea and Arsenal man has made an impressive start to his managerial career at Como, guiding the Italian side to their first ever European qualification this season, and qualifying for the Champions League. Catalunya Radio explain that Barcelona are looking at Fabregas, and he has the unanimous backing of President Joan Laporta and Sporting Director Deco.
Fabregas also has a strong relationship with Laporta’s ex-brother-in-law, Alejandro Echevarria, who wields plenty of power within the club as an advisor and fixer. They have told Fabregas to keep his agenda open for 2028, when Flick’s contract expires, and his phone on.
Fabregas likely to be in high demand
It seems highly likely that Fabregas will have offers elsewhere in the next two seasons before then. Already this season it was suggested that Fabregas could have interest from Europe’s biggest clubs, but he has decided to remain at Como. Last month Fabregas even commented that he would not rule out taking the Real Madrid job if it was offered to him. The Blaugrana will no doubt be keen to avoid the talented Fabregas ending up at the Bernabeu.
