Héctor Fort, a young prospect for FC Barcelona, has seen his participation on the field limited this season. Despite his renewal until 2026, his presence has been scarce, suggesting that Hansi Flick is seeking alternatives to strengthen the defensive flanks.
Flick Seeks Versatility in Full-Backs
Hansi Flick has expressed the need to incorporate a versatile full-back who can play both on the right and the left. This addition would allow regular starters like Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde to rest, ensuring optimal performance in all competitions.
Andrei Ratiu: A Standout Option
Among the candidates to reinforce the blaugrana defense, Andrei Ratiu, a full-back from Rayo Vallecano, stands out. Ratiu has excelled this season for his speed, commitment, and offensive capability, qualities that align with Flick's playing philosophy. His release clause is 25 million euros, a considerable investment but in line with his performance.
Although Ratiu is an attractive option, FC Barcelona is also evaluating more affordable alternatives. The sports management, led by Deco, is looking for options that fit the club's budget without compromising quality. In this context, the name of another full-back has emerged who could meet expectations.
Marc Pubill: Deco's Favorite
Marc Pubill, a defender from UD Almería, has caught Barça's attention. At 21 years old, Pubill has played 23 matches in the Second Division during the 2024/2025 season, gaining experience and showing defensive solidity. His ability to adapt to both flanks and his potential make him an interesting option for the Catalan team.
While Ratiu offers experience in the First Division and a more offensive profile, Pubill represents a young alternative with room for growth. Economically, Pubill could be a more viable option, allowing Barça to strengthen other areas of the team.
The Final Decision: Balancing Quality and Budget
FC Barcelona's sports management faces the challenge of balancing quality and budget in their signings. The choice between Ratiu and Pubill will depend on factors such as cost, development potential, and adaptation to Flick's playing style.
Expectations for the Next Season
With the addition of a versatile full-back, Barça seeks to strengthen their defense and maintain competitiveness in all competitions. The decision on who will fill this position will be crucial for the team's performance in the next season.