Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has far exceeded expectations this season in the Catalan capital, with expectations as low as they have been since the departure of Lionel Messi. It is no surprise that President Joan Laporta is desperate to tie the German coach to himself and the club as much as possible.
Flick has left hints in recent months that he does not see himself being at the club for more than a few years, and has said more recently that what is important for him is the here and now. However Laporta has been keen to sign Flick to a new deal, with the German entering the final year of his deal this summer, originally only given a two-year contract.
In congruence with Flick’s discourse, his new deal will not be a long one, with the extension lasting only until 2027. Marca say that the deal is already agreed, and the only thing missing is the announcement. This is for a variety of reasons, beginning with Flick’s preference himself. He is keen to avoid distractions, and as a result, the announcement will come after the end of the season.
Another factor in the timing is Barcelona’s salary limit. Once the deal is made official, the Blaugrana must find a way to register the new contract, something that is currently not a simple matter for the Blaugrana, as they try to resolve their salary limit issues once more. They hope to be able to do so before the end of June. Flick’s extension will also take him past the current election cycle, with Laporta set to run again in 2026 for re-election: the contract will provide an escape clause for both Flick and the new president, should it not be Laporta.
Certainly Flick will no doubt be hoping that Barcelona do have some spending power in the summer. While using the La Masia players has worked in his favour this season, as he gains more credit and weight in the Barcelona offices, he will no doubt be keen to add some depth to the Barcelona squad, one which he was given with only Dani Olmo and Pau Victor for additions following a disappointing season.