Barcelona’s Pep-inspired full-back plan could reshape the squad

Barcelona are moving towards a new interpretation of the full-back position, favouring players with the technical ability and mindset of midfielders as part of a possession-based approach, according to Catalan newspaper Sport.

The change reflects the principles established by Johan Cruyff and developed by Pep Guardiola, who used full-backs to help control possession, build attacks and create numerical advantages in central areas rather than restricting them to the touchline.

Xavi Espart and Brian Farinas are regarded as examples of the direction Barcelona are taking, having both moved from midfield into defensive roles. Farinas made a strong impression on his first appearance for the team, recording a passing accuracy of 97.5% against Alaves and 93.6% against Aston Villa.

The young defender also showed confidence in progressing the ball and the ability to combine with team-mates in the attacking third. Those qualities are central to the wider tactical idea, in which full-backs are expected to contribute to build-up play and move into midfield when required.

The approach also appears to suit manager Hansi Flick’s preferences. He is reported to admire the qualities of Espart, Farinas and Joao Cancelo, as well as Eric Garcia, whose reading of the game allows him to operate in several positions, including midfield.

Kounde and Balde face changing demands

The tactical evolution has raised questions over the suitability of Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde, whose particular strengths may not align as closely with the responsibilities now being placed on Barcelona’s full-backs.

Kounde has maintained a consistent level with France, but has found it more difficult to meet the attacking demands Flick expects from the position. His role increasingly requires more than defensive reliability and one-on-one ability, with greater involvement in possession and in the centre of the pitch.

Balde’s situation is different. His pace and ability to break through defensive lines previously made him an effective outlet, particularly when Raphinha moved inside and created space for him to attack from the left.

Under Flick, however, Barcelona have increasingly used specialist wingers such as Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi. That has reduced the space Balde previously exploited and required him to move into central areas more often, changing the conditions in which he has been most effective.

Sport reports that suitable offers during the winter transfer window could lead to either Kounde or Balde leaving the club as Barcelona continue to adjust their tactical structure. However, the team still needs both players because of the demands created by a congested fixture schedule.

The potential departures would therefore depend not only on the players’ fit within Flick’s system but also on whether Barcelona receive proposals considered appropriate during the winter window.