Laporta: Hansi Flick Was Always the Favorite to Take Over at Barcelona

Barcelona President Joan Laporta Reveals Reasoning Behind Appointing Hansi Flick as New Manager

Following the dismissal of Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona President Joan Laporta has shed light on the decision to appoint Hansi Flick as the club's new manager.

Laporta revealed that he had been considering Flick for the role since his return to the club, impressed by the German coach's impressive track record.

Laporta stated, "I started thinking of Flick as Barça manager since I re-joined the club." He added, "He started studying the team right after Xavi's announcement. All the reports we have on Flick were super positive." Laporta also revealed that club legends Deco and Bojan shared his enthusiasm for Flick, saying, "Deco and Bojan also had the same feeling, Flick had to be our coach."

Flick's appointment comes after Xavi's departure, which followed a successful first season where he won La Liga, but a disappointing second season where the team finished second. In contrast, Flick boasts an impressive résumé, having won numerous titles with Bayern Munich, including:

- Bundesliga (2): 2020-21, 2021-22

- DFB-Pokal (1): 2020-21

- UEFA Champions League (1): 2020-21

- UEFA Super Cup (1): 2021

- FIFA Club World Cup (1): 2021

Laporta's confidence in Flick's abilities is evident, and the club hopes that the German coach will bring similar success to Barcelona.