Esteemed journalist Christian Falk has stated that former Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick is interested in taking over from Xavi at Barcelona, revealing that the German tactician has already begun learning Spanish.
From Flick to Luis Enrique, the Blaugrana have been linked with several top managers since Xavi announced his decision to step down as the club’s coach at the end of the 2023-24 season. Bayern’s Thomas Tuchel and Paris Saint-Germain’s Enrique could be suitable options for Barca, but they are both under long-term contracts. Flick, on the other hand, has been without a job since Germany released him in September 2023. This means financially-strapped Barca will not have to worry about compensating another club to secure his services.
According to Falk, Flick is seeking a new challenge and is enticed by the opportunity to manage one of Europe’s biggest teams, Barcelona. In order to get a head start, Flick has already begun learning Spanish, which will greatly aid his transition if he decides to move to Catalonia.
In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Falk wrote:
“Hansi Flick is already learning Spanish. The former Coach of the German national team is looking for a new challenge in the summer and the job at FC Barcelona would appeal to him.”
Flick earned a well-deserved promotion from assistant to head coach in November 2019. He remained at the Allianz Arena until June 30, 2021, overseeing 86 games and leading the team to 70 victories, eight draws, and eight defeats. Flick won the Treble with Bayern Munich at the conclusion of the 2019-20 season and rightfully received the Manager of the Year award.
Shortly after departing Bayern, Flick took charge of the German national team. Unfortunately, he was unable to replicate his success on the international stage and was released after two lackluster years. Between August 2021 and September 2023, Flick oversaw 25 matches, with Die Mannschaft managing to win only 12 of them.
According to reports in Spain, Flick was previously president Joan Laporta’s top choice to replace Ronald Koeman before Xavi’s appointment in 2021. It will be interesting to see if Laporta’s wish comes true this time around.