Hansi Flick excludes Hafiz Gariba from Barcelona first-team plans

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick does not currently view 19-year-old defensive prospect Hafiz Gariba as a viable option for the first team. Despite existing depth concerns at centre-back during the 2026/27 campaign, the coaching staff considers the defender not yet ready for senior competition. Gariba, who signed a contract with the club through 2028, has spent his recent development with the Juvenil A side. An opportunity to impress during pre-season was missed when a fever prevented him from participating in a match against CE Europa. Currently, the club relies on Pau Cubarsi, Andreas Christensen, and Gerard Martin in the heart of the defense, with Jules Kounde often utilized in a full-back role. There is no immediate pathway for Gariba to join the senior squad under Flick at this time.

• 11:30 AMYahoo Sports — Exclusive: 19-year-old La Masia defensive gem not part of Flick’s plan despite depth concerns