Flick could make defensive shakeups for Rayo game

Jason Trochez-Reyes

Flick could make defensive shakeups for Rayo game  image

Hansi Flick was not happy with the defensive performance Barcelona put out against Levante despite still managing to win.

Barcelona looked vulnerable to counter attacks which isn't necessarily new, but with the departure of Iñigo Martinez, it feels more concerning this year.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the German coach could be looking to shake up the defense ahead of the game this Sunday against Rayo.

Right Back

Eric Garcia has been starting at right back since the end of last season as Jules Kounde had picked up an injury that kept him out for a few weeks. 

Most fans expected for Kounde to gain his position back as soon as he was fit and ready to go. Instead, Flick decided to reward Eric Garcia by letting him remain the starter but it seems like that might change.

It seems like Flick might go back to Kounde to establish a more defensively solid backline and give the Frenchmen the spot he never really lost.

Left Centre Back

Pau Cubarsi is a fantastic player already and still has plenty of potential to grow. He's capable of playing left centre back, but it feels weird trying to limit his passing range by putting him on the left side of defense,

It seems like Flick agrees with this sentiment as the Mundo Deportivo reports says that Cubarsi will be moved to right centre back to get the best out of the Spanish international.

Reportedly, the German is debating whether to move Ronald Araujo to the left centre back position or opt for a player more comfortable in the position like Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martin, or even the aforementioned Eric Garcia.

What changes Flick makes is yet to be seen, but it's clear there's early concern about the defense.

 

Jason Trochez-Reyes

Jason Trochez-Reyes is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. A 2025 Johnson & Wales University graduate who majored in Sports Entertainment and Event Management, he’s always had a passion for sports. He has worked for websites such as The Lead SM and Fansided, covering soccer and football.