FC Barcelona has drawn up a succession plan that will see Cesc Fàbregas take over as head coach from Hansi Flick starting in 2028. The move marks a long-term bet on the former Barcelona star, who has been preparing for a return to the club's dugout.
Succession Plan Takes Shape
The plan, confirmed by club officials, sets a clear timeline for the transition. Flick, who took over as coach in 2024, will remain in charge through the 2027-28 season. Fàbregas is then expected to step into the role. The club has not commented on the specifics of Flick's contract or whether he will leave at that point or move into a different role.
Barcelona's decision to lock in a successor years in advance is unusual. It gives Fàbregas time to gain experience elsewhere while keeping a clear path back to Camp Nou. The club sees him as a natural fit given his deep ties to the team's playing philosophy.
The 2028 Handover
Why 2028? The timeline aligns with the end of Flick's current contract, sources indicate. It also gives Fàbregas more than three years to continue building his coaching résumé. He currently manages Como in Italy's Serie A, where he has drawn praise for his tactical approach and ability to develop young players.
For Barcelona, the plan reduces uncertainty. The club has struggled with instability in the manager's position in recent years. Flick's tenure has brought some calm, but the board wants a clear succession in place. Fàbregas's appointment is seen as a way to bridge the club's past and future.
Fàbregas's Return to Barcelona
Fàbregas came through Barcelona's La Masia academy before moving to Arsenal as a teenager. He returned to the club in 2011 and spent three seasons with the first team, winning multiple trophies. After retiring as a player in 2023, he moved into coaching, first with Como's youth team and then as head coach.
His familiarity with Barcelona's style makes him an attractive candidate. The club believes he can maintain the possession-based identity that fans expect. The board also values his experience working under coaches like Pep Guardiola and Arsène Wenger.
The plan is set to take effect in 2028, barring any changes in performance or circumstances. For now, Flick remains focused on the current season, while Fàbregas continues his work in Italy. The next step will be integrating Fàbregas into the club's coaching structure before the handover.
