Joan Laporta wants nothing more than for Hansi Flick to be on Barça's bench for many years, which will soon be at Camp Nou. One must be prepared for anything when results dictate. In case of emergency, Deco would already have the replacement ready.
Joan Laporta and Deco know that the blaugrana bench is a poisoned electric chair. Just in case, they already have their "plan B" in the chamber: Juliano Belletti.
The hero of Paris 2006 is not only still linked to the club as an ambassador. For months, he has been immersed in an internal training process that positions him as a future coach.
Silently and without making noise, Belletti has been increasing his presence in the club's sports structure. Participating in talks, tactical analyses, and technical support tasks. Laporta trusts him, and if things go wrong with Flick, Belletti will be the chosen one to replace him in the future.
Comes From Winning the Youth Champions With Barça
Belletti comes from winning the Youth League, equivalent to the Champions League for players aged 15 to 21. With the triumph of the youth A team, Barça is now the club that has won the most titles: they are now three.
Belletti is destined to fulfill great challenges at Barça. He still can't coach professional teams because he doesn't yet have the title, which he will obtain this summer. Deco has reserved Barça Atlètic for him, which will presumably be relegated.
There he will gain experience, as Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique did in their time. Then he will be ready to make the leap to the first team. That is, hoping that this moment is delayed a lot and that things go well for Flick for many years.
The idea is neither rushed nor improvised. At Barça, they consider that Belletti's profile fits with the club's philosophy. He knows the house, has experienced the pressure of Camp Nou, and has the fans' respect.
The Emergency Plan Will Be Belletti
Moreover, his international experience and his training as a coach make him a reliable option if the sports situation demands a sudden change.
Although the board insists that the confidence in Flick is total, recent precedents invite having an "emergency plan." Since Koeman, no coach has managed to consolidate a long-term project, and institutional wear accelerates decisions. Belletti would not be an improvised solution but a considered bet.
Among the fans, there is a division of opinions. While some value the return of legends who know the club from within, others fear that the cycle of coaches without experience at the highest level will be repeated.
What is clear is that Laporta always has a card up his sleeve. Belletti is already on the table.