Barcelona's summer 2026 plan puts the future of 8 stars at stake
Spanish club Barcelona, led by Portuguese sporting director Deco, has begun to shape the team for the 2026-2027 season.
According to a lengthy report published by the Spanish newspaper "Ace" today, the sports administration is preparing to decide the fate of eight players at once, in a process aimed at balancing the roster technically and financially under the leadership of German coach Hans Flick, who in turn seeks to stabilize the pillars of his sports project.
Lewandowski and Rashford's dilemma
According to the newspaper, the attacking trio is at the top of the list of open files, as for Poland's Robert Lewandowski, speculation about his departure is increasing in light of serious interest from Italy's two poles (Milan and Juventus) and tempting offers from the American League.
However, the management is setting a "harsh" condition for him to stay for an additional season, which is to accept the role of substitute and cut his salary in half. As for the Englishman Marcus Rashford, although Flick is fully convinced of him, the amount of €30 million demanded by Manchester United is a financial obstacle that may prevent him from buying him at all.
The newspaper reported that on the other hand, Ferran Torres seems to be in a relatively better position despite his fluctuating level, due to his great harmony with the young core of the team represented by Yamal, Gavi and Pedri.
Midfield and tough options: Cancelo and Casado
In the back and midfield, the name of Portuguese Joao Cancelo stands out, who has openly expressed his desire to stay, but the final decision is still pending between technical considerations and the financial demands of his original club.
In an unexpected surprise, young midfielder Marc Casado is considering the option of moving to the Saudi league, a file that has not yet been resolved by the club's management, pending an assessment of the team's needs in the centerpiece.
The 'Playtime' Crisis and Young Talent
The Swede, who is of Arab descent, faces a major challenge in getting minutes in the main role, especially with the "non-stop glow" of the outstanding talent of Lamine Yamal.
The newspaper "Ace" indicates that the club is open to his departure if the player wants to get a greater chance to participate, while the doors will be open for his stay if he accepts the rotation role.
Possible departure of legend Ter Stegen
Goalkeeping is the most controversial issue, with the starting goalkeeper position seemingly reserved for Juan Garcia, the competition for the substitute position is fiercing.
According to current data, Poland's Wojciech Szczesny, who enjoys the trust of Hans Flick and has a contract until 2027, is favorable.
This trend could mean the end of the German Marc-Andre ter Stegen's era with Barça after 12 years of giving, especially after his recent loan to Girona and suffering from an injury that kept him out of the stadium recently.