Barcelona manager Hansi Flick will determine the future of right-backs Xavi Espart and Hector Fort during the club’s preseason preparations, according to Cadena SER. The decision comes as Flick and Sporting Director Deco begin assessing the squad following the conclusion of the La Liga season.
This season has been a challenging one for Jules Kounde, who has struggled to consistently perform at the level expected of him, leading to speculation that Barcelona may be open to offers for the Frenchman. The potential for Eric Garcia to be repurposed as a right-back, rather than his traditional central defender role, further complicates the situation.
Fort recently completed a loan spell at Elche, making 16 appearances and contributing three goals and two assists, though his time there was disrupted by a shoulder injury. He has expressed a desire to remain with Barcelona, but his future will depend on Flick’s assessment. Espart has made a positive impression in limited appearances for the first team, primarily featuring for Barcelona Atletic.
The report indicates that Flick will choose one of Espart or Fort to remain with the squad, with the other likely to be loaned out to gain further experience. Fort was previously sent on loan due to a lack of opportunities, and the club may also consider offers for him to raise funds or offset transfer costs.
In addition to the right-back situation, goalkeeper Inaki Pena is expected to depart this summer after returning from a loan spell at Elche where he made 16 appearances but lost his starting position. Forward Hamza Abdelkarim, who joined Barca Atletic earlier in 2026, will also participate in preseason with the first team, although Barcelona will consider offers for him during the transfer window.
The decisions made by Flick in preseason will significantly shape Barcelona’s squad depth and tactical options ahead of the next campaign, potentially freeing up funds for other targets.
