The 2025-26 season is already at an end for FC Barcelona, and the Blaugranes are expected to go into the next season with several changes in their squad. The most notable of these changes is expected to be in terms of players, as the Catalans are looking to add several more players this summer.
Meanwhile, some changes are also expected in the coaching staff. [The departure of Thiago Alcantara has already been confirmed](https://semprebarca.com/barcelona-last-training-session-of-2025-26-season-sees-thiago-farewell-kounde-absent-and-six-academy-call-ups/), while Stephan Nopp is also set to leave the club this summer.
As a result, Hansi Flick’s backroom staff is set to become significantly thinner, and according to [Diario AS](https://as.com/futbol/primera/flick-reclama-un-preparador-fisico-para-la-proxima-temporada-f202605-n/), the German coach has already asked for a new addition ahead of next season. More specifically, Flick wants Barcelona to bring in a new fitness coach.
The club has not yet approved this request, and there is still some reluctance internally, just like there was when Thiago arrived last summer. Even so, Barcelona are aware that there were several shortcomings in physical preparation this season, especially with the team suffering more injuries than they did during Xavi Hernandez’s final campaign in charge.
At that time, the physical aspect was seen as one of the main reasons behind the team’s struggles, and Flick now wants improvements in this department as Barcelona prepare for a season in which the Champions League will once again be the main objective.
The German coach reportedly believes it will be difficult for the Blaugranes to compete with Europe’s top sides without an added edge physically.
For now, Barcelona have already informed Flick that their commitment to Julio Tous, the current head of physical preparation, remains unchanged. Thus, even if a new fitness coach arrives, the hierarchy in this area is not expected to change, although Tous’ influence could be reduced going forward.
Flick is expected to continue discussions with the club in the coming days as he looks for a solution that works for everyone involved. Importantly for the German tactician, he also has the backing of several players in this matter, with some members of the squad having reportedly expressed concerns about the physical preparation throughout the season and even seeking outside help to complement the daily work being done at the club.