English Premier League
Hansi Flick backs Rodri move to restore leadership at Barcelona
Hansi Flick believes Rodri could help solve Barcelona’s growing leadership problem as the club’s squad becomes increasingly dominated by young players.
Barcelona’s first-team group has changed significantly in recent years, with academy graduates and other young players taking on more prominent roles. However, the departures of Ronald Araujo and Robert Lewandowski this summer have removed two experienced figures who carried considerable influence within the dressing room.
The loss of that experience has left Flick without enough senior personalities capable of taking responsibility, commanding respect and leading the squad through difficult periods. According to Sport, the German manager has therefore asked Barcelona to recruit players who can bring the required experience and leadership.
That was one of the main reasons Flick gave his approval to a potential deal for Rodri.
Flick appreciates what the Manchester City midfielder could offer Barcelona technically and in terms of his overall quality. But the manager is understood to be especially attracted by Rodri’s experience and authority.
Barcelona’s current squad is heavily weighted towards younger players, and Flick believes the team needs someone who can make a decisive contribution during the most demanding moments of the season. That need would be particularly significant in the Champions League and during the decisive stages of domestic campaigns.
Rodri could provide that influence and partially fill the leadership gap that is causing concern for Flick. His ability to perform under pressure, combined with his experience at the highest level, is seen as potentially important beyond his contribution in midfield.
At present, Wojciech Szczesny is the only player in Barcelona’s squad aged over 30. The goalkeeper has a positive personality and supports the younger members of the team, but he does not possess the same commanding presence inside the dressing room as Araujo and Lewandowski did.
Joao Cancelo would be the only other player likely to join the over-30 group if his return to Barcelona is completed. His possible arrival would add experience, but Flick is still seeking figures capable of assuming a more clearly defined leadership role.
Barcelona’s hierarchy is also set for change on the pitch. The departures of Ronald Araujo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, together with the long-term injury suffered by Frenkie de Jong, mean the club’s captaincy structure will be altered.
Raphinha is expected to become Barcelona’s first captain, with Pedri taking the role of vice-captain. Gavi and Eric Garcia could also be added to the group of players entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
The changes underline why Flick is looking beyond Rodri’s technical qualities. With several established figures no longer available, the midfielder’s experience and authority could be as valuable to Barcelona’s dressing room as his performances during matches.
