Hansi Flick is reportedly “deeply disappointed” as the 18-year-old talent forces a January move to Paris after a Copa del Rey fallout.
The relationship between Hansi Flick and one of his brightest pupils has reached a breaking point. Dro Fernández, once seen as a future pillar of the Barcelona midfield, is set to join Paris Saint-Germain this month following a series of behind-the-scenes disagreements that culminated in a recent Copa del Rey snub.
According to Sport, the final straw for Dro was being left on the bench during the match against CD Guadalajara. The youngster believed he was ready for immediate first-team responsibility, and the lack of minutes convinced him that his future lay elsewhere specifically under Luis Enrique in Paris.
The “Diplomatic” Transfer
To avoid a total breakdown in relations between the two clubs, PSG has opted for a strategic approach:
- The Clause: Dro’s release clause sits at a modest €6 million.
- The Deal: PSG will reportedly pay €8 million (approx. £6.7m / R$ 50m) to Barcelona, an “overpayment” intended to maintain professional goodwill between Joan Laporta and Nasser Al-Khelaifi.
A Blow to Flick’s Project
Hansi Flick is said to be “extremely angry” and disappointed. The German coach had integrated Dro into the senior dynamics early in the 2025/26 season, viewing him as a key rotational piece. Following the player’s decision, Dro has been effectively frozen out of the squad, failing to make the list for recent fixtures.
Exit Fever: Is Guille Fernández Next?
The “Dro Case” has sent shockwaves through the youth academy. The club’s hierarchy is now reportedly concerned about Guille Fernández, another elite midfield prospect whose contract expires in June 2027.
Guille, who has seen his progression slowed by fierce competition in the first team (from the likes of Pedri and Gavi), is also attracting interest from European giants. Barcelona now faces a race to renew his deal and prove to the La Masia stars that the path to the first team is still open.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
