FC Barcelona tactical shifts: Eric Garcia to right-back and Hector Fort transfer news

FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick is implementing significant tactical and squad changes ahead of the new season. A primary shift involves Eric Garcia, who is being transitioned to a starting right-back role. Flick intends to utilize Garcia’s ball-playing abilities to aid build-up play, a move supported by his high passing accuracy and involvement in play. This positional change places Jules Kounde’s starting position in doubt, with reports suggesting Arsenal may be interested in the Frenchman.

In the transfer market, Borussia Dortmund has emerged as a leading contender to sign 20-year-old defender Hector Fort. Fort is reportedly seeking regular first-team football after falling out of favor with Flick’s current plans. Barcelona values the player between €15m and €20m and may include buy-back clauses to maintain control.

Additionally, the club is managing the return of several players following the FIFA World Cup. Due to player participation in the tournament's later stages, several La Liga clubs, including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid, have been granted extra rest periods. The squad is also integrating young talents like Ebrima Tunkara during the pre-season period.