Barcelona manager Hansi Flick continued to make his presence felt at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper as he oversaw another intense training session ahead of the club’s upcoming pre-season campaign. In particular, he was seen paying close attention to two of Barça’s brightest midfield prospects — Fermín López and Marc Casadó — both of whom are vying to earn a place in the first-team setup under the new regime.
Flick, known for his meticulous and player-centric coaching style, spent several moments one-on-one with the young talents, offering tactical advice and encouragement. His active involvement in youth development — a trait that served him well during his time with Bayern Munich and the German national team — signals a clear message: opportunities will be based on merit, and the door is open for academy graduates to make their mark.
Fermín López, who enjoyed a breakthrough season last year under Xavi, has already shown glimpses of brilliance. His fearless approach, creative flair, and ability to operate in tight spaces make him a compelling option in midfield. Flick, aware of Fermín’s potential, appears determined to refine his decision-making and positional discipline to help him become a more complete player.
Meanwhile, Marc Casadó, the captain of Barça Atlètic, is regarded as one of the most tactically intelligent and disciplined players coming through La Masia. A natural defensive midfielder, Casadó’s reading of the game, pressing ability, and leadership qualities are exactly the type of traits that could earn him a role as a rotational option in Flick’s system — especially as Barcelona look to manage squad depth across multiple competitions.
This training session wasn’t just another day at work — it was a glimpse into Flick’s broader vision for FC Barcelona. Rather than simply relying on big-name stars, the German tactician seems committed to blending elite youth with experience, and he’s clearly watching every detail. The inclusion of players like Fermín and Casadó in these sessions suggests they’re not just training bodies — they’re being seriously assessed for competitive roles in the first team.
With a demanding pre-season ahead — and the Asian tour just around the corner — these moments could prove crucial. For young players on the fringes of the senior squad, every sprint, pass, and instruction taken on board might tip the scale in their favor.