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Player barred from pre-season by Hansi Flick angers Barcelona board after demands

Player barred from pre-season by Hansi Flick angers Barcelona board after demands

Rising star Jan Virgili has sparked internal tension at FC Barcelona after demanding a direct promotion to the first team, bypassing the traditional development path through Barça Atlètic. The club’s management is reportedly furious with the midfielder’s behavior and is now weighing his future at the club.

According to Cadena SER, Barcelona is considering terminating Virgili’s contract or transferring him elsewhere after the 19-year-old insisted on skipping the reserve squad stage—a non-negotiable step for La Masia graduates. The situation worsened after Hansi Flick excluded Virgili from the club’s ongoing preseason tour of Asia, a decision that may have prompted the player’s increasingly defiant stance.

A Break from Club Tradition

Barcelona has long required its academy players to earn senior team opportunities by proving themselves at Barça Atlètic. Even club legends like Sergio Busquets spent a full season in the B team before being promoted to the senior squad. Virgili’s refusal to follow the same path has been labeled by club insiders as “disrespectful” and “unacceptable.”

In a brief official statement, the club reaffirmed its stance:
“The club confirms that any player who refuses to respect the natural development path must leave.”

Flick’s Influence and Public Reaction

New head coach Hansi Flick played a key role in the decision to leave Virgili out of the tour squad. The German coach reportedly prioritized players who have demonstrated humility and patience in line with the club’s long-standing values.

On social media, many fans supported Flick’s move, suggesting the player is “showing his claws too soon,” and warning that attitude issues could derail a promising career.

Strong Stats, Divisive Attitude

Despite the controversy, Virgili enjoyed a productive 2023–24 season. The midfielder played 27 matches across Barcelona’s U-19 and reserve teams, scoring eight goals and providing five assists—a total of 13 direct goal contributions.

His strong numbers are at the heart of his argument for skipping the B team, but the club remains unconvinced. Officials believe that time in Barça Atlètic is essential for adapting to the physical and tactical demands of top-flight football.

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