Barcelona might pass over Hansi Flick in their quest for a new head coach, according to reports from Spain. Sporting director Deco indicated on local radio that Xavi’s successor should possess experience working in different countries.
With current manager Xavi set to step down at the end of the season, Barcelona is actively seeking a replacement. Flick, who is currently unemployed after being dismissed by the Germany national team in September, has been prominently linked to the role.
However, MARCA reports that Flick’s limited experience outside of Germany could hinder his chances of securing the Barcelona managerial position. The club is reportedly seeking a coach who has proven their mettle in various leagues.
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Before his stint with the German national team, Flick enjoyed a successful two-year tenure with Bayern Munich, leading them to Champions League glory in 2020, most notably with an 8-2 victory over Barcelona in the quarter-finals.
In an interview with Radio Catalunya, sporting director Deco emphasized the importance of a new manager having a diverse international coaching background. He stated, “Regardless of its style, Barca has a football and a way of playing that the coaches know. I didn’t have any German coaches, I had Dutch, Italian, Brazilian… nationality doesn’t matter. It does matter that they know the football of other countries and have trained in other places. Quality, ambition also matter… there is no robot portrait.”
While this potential criterion might pose challenges for Flick, it could enhance the prospects of other candidates such as Brighton & Hove Albion’s Roberto De Zerbi and outgoing Bayern head coach Thomas Tuchel. De Zerbi has demonstrated success in the Premier League, having managed in Italy and Ukraine, while Tuchel has achieved honors in Germany, France, and England.