Barcelona have named Hansi Flick, the former Bayern Munich manager, as their new head coach on a two-year deal. Flick steps in to replace Xavi, who was relieved of his duties last week, after being dismissed from the German national team in September 2023.
Flick’s recent managerial history includes a highly successful stint at Bayern Munich, where he led the club to a treble in 2020, winning the Bundesliga, the German Cup, and the Champions League. Notably, during his time at Bayern, Flick coached Barcelona’s current forward Robert Lewandowski, now 35, for two seasons.
On his appointment, Flick expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s a tremendous honour and a dream to sign my contract here. My time at Bayern Munich was filled with title wins, and my hunger for more success is still strong. I believe we can achieve great things together at Barcelona. The club’s philosophy of possession-based and attacking football aligns perfectly with my own.”
Xavi’s departure comes just a month after Barcelona had initially confirmed his continuation. Despite leading the team to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup triumphs in his first full season, this year saw Barcelona finish 10 points behind arch-rivals Real Madrid. Xavi himself noted that his successor would face challenges, saying the role involves “suffering.”
Barcelona’s official statement on Wednesday highlighted Flick’s dynamic and aggressive style of play, which has garnered him significant success. “We’ve chosen a manager known for his high pressing and intense, daring approach, which has brought him success both at club and international levels. He has won nearly every major trophy in football,” the club’s statement said.
Flick has been without a job since his dismissal from the German national team eight months ago, marking a fresh start for both him and Barcelona.
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