One standout is Hector Fort, who spent the previous season on loan at Elche. The 19-year-old defender will return to the club this summer with a clear objective: seize a first-team spot instead of pursuing another loan spell.
Reports indicate Fort is expected to report for pre-season on July 13 and then travel with the squad to England. There, the team is slated to run a one-week training camp and play two friendly matches. For Fort, those fixtures could be pivotal. Having spent last season away on loan, he is determined to prove he belongs with Barcelona and not seek another temporary move. His ambition mirrors the mindset Barça typically seeks in a La Masia graduate: embrace competition, showcase versatility, and seize opportunities early.
Right-back remains the area of the squad most in need of reinforcement. Last season revealed a lack of natural cover in that position. Jules Kounde served as the primary option, but when he was unavailable, the coaching staff had to accommodate players from other roles, including Eric Garcia and Ronald Araujo. Such improvisation is far from ideal for a club aiming to compete on multiple fronts, where the physical and tactical demands of the right-back role are particularly high.
Fort’s profile is appealing because he offers energy, speed, and attacking intent. At Elche, he demonstrated growth, especially when deployed in more advanced wide roles. The challenge at Barcelona will be different, but his versatility could be an asset if he can translate it to the highest level. The coaching staff will be watching to see if he can provide both defensive discipline and forward impetus, particularly in wide areas that support a dynamic attack.
Kounde’s uncertain future also adds an element of intrigue to the plan. While Barcelona have not shop-warned the French defender on the market, they would consider offers if a compelling proposal arrives. This doesn’t mean Fort should count on Kounde leaving, but it does underline that the right-back position could still see changes in the near term.
For Flick, pre-season will be the ideal proving ground. Fort must demonstrate defensive discipline, composure under pressure, and the ability to maintain balance on the right flank alongside attacking talents such as Lamine Yamal. Historically, Fort has faced challenges in defending, and the coming weeks will be crucial for convincing the manager that he can anchor the right side effectively.
Looking ahead, if Fort performs well in pre-season, there is a real opportunity for him to cement a place in the squad rather than returning to the loan circuit. He will need to show consistency in defensive duties while contributing to Barcelona’s build-up play and linking with the attack.
In summary, the upcoming pre-season will be a critical test for Hector Fort and several other players. The club is keen to identify homegrown talent capable of bridging the gap between youth promise and senior-level impact. The focus will be on building a robust, competitive squad capable of sustaining success across domestic and European competitions, with Fort positioned as a potential contributor on the right side of defense.
