Ronald Araújo has taken an important step at Barça. He now has a more prominent role and will form a center-back partnership with Andreas Cubarsi. His presence brings solidity and leadership to the defense.
However, the culés weren't able to secure a signing that many consider a unique opportunity. That player, whom Flick had been pursuing for some time, is now shining far from Barcelona.
Jonathan Tah, the gem that got away
Jonathan Tah was one of Hansi Flick's clear targets to strengthen the blaugrana backline. The German coach pushed last summer for Barça to sign him. The blaugrana club even managed to secure him with a free transfer agreement, but the deal wasn't closed.
The main reason was the excess of center-backs in the squad. In the end, Barça's defense ended up undergoing adjustments and led to Íñigo Martínez's departure to Saudi Arabia. Now, seeing Tah's development, it's clear that his signing would've been a game-changer: an experienced, leading center-back at zero cost.
Leader at Bayern
Tah hasn't wasted any time showing his quality; at Bayern Munich, he has become an undisputed starter. His presence is key both on and off the field. According to "Sky Sports," Bayern's locker room has chosen him as one of the team captains this season, sharing the armband with Neuer, Kimmich, and Harry Kane.
The center-back was already a starter in the Club World Cup and the German Super Cup. He has even surpassed Kim Min-Jae, another Bayern center-back, consolidating his position. His influence is evident: he brings leadership, security, and experience.
Hansi Flick knew what he wanted
Flick's interest in Tah wasn't random. The German coach was looking for a center-back with character, leadership ability, and physical strength. A player who could lead the defense and make a difference—the best part: at zero cost.
Tah fit perfectly into Flick's philosophy. However, the blaugrana club's wait and final indecision caused him to slip away. Today, the German coach smiles as he sees his choice in action at Bayern.
Perfect adaptation
Jonathan Tah has adapted wonderfully at Bayern; during preseason he stated: "I don't like the word leader. We all have to be leaders on the field and take responsibility. But, of course, I try to take a lot of responsibility on and off the field, I want to lead the way in the team."
His maturity and professionalism are reflected in every match. Bayern have trusted him as a central piece in the renewal of its defense after the problems suffered last season. His arrival has brought stability and security, and it might not be the only addition to strengthen the backline.