"The absence of Andreas Christensen has created a serious dilemma for Barcelona at a crucial point of the season. With the Danish international ruled out until the end of the campaign and uncertainty still surrounding the return of Ronald Araujo, Barcelona's defensive structure has been left dangerously exposed. For Hansi Flick, reinforcing the centre-back position is no longer optional, it has become essential. Much has been written about Barcelona's search for short-term solutions in the January transfer window, but the reality is far less encouraging."
"Options that are affordable, available, and convincing from a sporting point of view are extremely limited. Flick is not prepared to sign a player simply to fill numbers, especially in a role as delicate as central defence. This is precisely why, according to SPORT, Flick is once again looking inward rather than outward. Since arriving at Barcelona, the German coach has repeatedly shown a willingness to trust La Masia when the market fails to offer the right answers."
"That philosophy could now come into play once more. One name gaining attention internally is Andres Cuenca, an 18-year-old left-footed centre-back currently playing with the reserve team. Cuenca is not a newcomer to Flick's plans, as the youngster made his senior debut in the Champions League against Young Boys last season. Despite his age, Cuenca has continued to progress steadily. He has featured in three official matches for the reserve team in Segunda RFEF and has also been part of Barcelona's Youth League campaign."
Andreas Christensen's long-term absence leaves Barcelona's defensive structure exposed, compounded by uncertainty over Ronald Araujo's return. Hansi Flick considers reinforcing the centre-back position essential rather than optional. January transfer options that are affordable, available, and sportingly convincing are extremely limited, and Flick refuses to sign a player merely to fill numbers in such a delicate role. Flick has repeatedly shown willingness to trust La Masia when the market fails to provide solutions. Eighteen-year-old left-footed centre-back Andres Cuenca has gained internal attention after progressing with the reserves, featuring in Segunda RFEF and the Youth League, and making a Champions League debut.
Read at Barca Universal
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