FC Barcelona are already preparing their plans for the upcoming pre-season under Hansi Flick, with several players looking to impress the German coach.
Among them is Hector Fort, who spent last season on loan at Elche. The teenager will return to Barcelona this summer with one clear objective.
According to MARCA, the 19-year-old will report for pre-season on 13 July before travelling with the squad to England, where Barça are expected to hold a one-week training camp and play two friendly matches.
Those games could be decisive for Fort. After spending last season on loan at Elche, he does not want another temporary move. His plan is to fight for a role at Barcelona now.
That attitude is exactly what the club should want from a La Masia defender. Fort knows the competition is tough, but he also knows there may be a real opening if he impresses Flick early.
Fort will be back at Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Right-back remains an open position
The right-back situation gives him some hope. Last season, it was the one defensive position Barcelona did not truly have covered.
Jules Kounde was the main option, and when he was unavailable, Flick had to use players from other roles, including Eric Garcia and Ronald Araujo.
That is not ideal for a team trying to compete across all competitions. Barcelona need natural depth, especially in positions where physical workload and defensive concentration are so demanding.
Fort’s profile is interesting because he can offer energy, speed and attacking intent. At Elche, he showed flashes of real growth, especially when used in more advanced wide roles. The challenge at Barça will be different.
Kounde’s future adds uncertainty
Uncertain future. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Kounde’s situation also matters. Barcelona are not putting the Frenchman on the market, but if an interesting offer arrives, the club would study it.
That does not mean Fort should plan around Kounde leaving. He has to earn his place regardless. It does mean the right-back picture is not completely closed.
For Flick, pre-season will be the perfect test. Fort must show he can defend with discipline, handle pressure in possession and give the team balance behind Lamine Yamal on the right.
Defending has always been Fort’s issue, and he needs to convince Flick that he is the right man to hold down the right flank.
Going forward, the Spaniard should be able to combine well with Lamine Yamal, and it remains to be seen whether the teenager is given a fair run in the right-back position during pre-season.
