Barcelona promotes Brian Fariñas to the first-team squad

Barcelona midfielder Brian Fariñas will receive a permanent first-team roster spot and jersey number following his performance during the preseason. The 20-year-old had previously been slated for a transfer to Girona earlier this summer before manager Hansi Flick intervened. After evaluating the player during preseason training, Flick decided to integrate the Spaniard into the senior squad. This development represents a reversal of earlier plans that would have seen Fariñas move to the La Liga 2 side to seek additional playing time. The club is expected to issue a formal announcement regarding the squad promotion in the coming days. Fariñas now remains at the Ciutat Esportiva as a confirmed member of the first-team rotation.

• 9:40 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona youngster set for first-team spot and new jersey number