As FC Barcelona navigates a demanding schedule, head coach Hansi Flick has often turned to squad rotations to manage player fatigue and injuries. One area of particular concern has been the left-back position, where Alejandro Balde has been the undisputed starter. While Gerard Martín has been the go-to option in Balde’s absence, it’s time for Flick to consider giving more opportunities to Héctor Fort, a versatile talent who has proven he can excel on both flanks.

Héctor Fort: A Versatile Asset

Héctor Fort has impressed whenever called upon, showcasing his adaptability by performing confidently on both the right and left sides of the defense. His versatility is a valuable asset for Barcelona, providing Flick with a reliable option who can slot into multiple positions as needed. While primarily considered a right-back, Fort’s technical skills, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute offensively make him an ideal candidate to fill in at left-back, especially during rotations.

The Case for Fort Over Gerard Martín

Gerard Martín has been the preferred backup for Balde, but his performances have been inconsistent, particularly when facing high-pressing and dynamic attacking teams. Fort, on the other hand, has shown maturity beyond his years, handling pressure well and making intelligent decisions under duress. His positional awareness and ability to read the game allow him to cover for his teammates and provide a stable defensive presence.

Moreover, Fort’s attacking contributions, such as his overlapping runs and accurate crossing, add an extra dimension to Barcelona’s play from the left flank. This attacking threat, combined with his defensive solidity, makes him a more balanced option compared to Martín, who often struggles to provide the same impact going forward.

A Solution for Squad Rotation

With Barcelona competing on multiple fronts this season, effective squad rotation is crucial to avoid burnout and injuries. Balde has been an essential player, but over-reliance on him could lead to fatigue, especially with the grueling schedule ahead. By giving Fort more minutes at left-back, Flick can ensure Balde gets the necessary rest without compromising the team’s performance.

Using Fort more regularly would not only help manage Balde’s workload but also accelerate Fort’s development. Young players need consistent game time to build confidence and experience, and Fort has shown he’s ready for more responsibility. His performances have already demonstrated that he can handle the pressure of playing in high-stakes matches, making him an ideal candidate for more frequent starts.

What Fort Brings to the Left Flank

Deploying Fort at left-back offers several tactical advantages. His ability to use both feet effectively allows him to maintain fluidity in possession, while his composure and passing range help in building attacks from deep. Defensively, his quick recovery speed and solid tackling make him a formidable presence against pacey wingers.

Furthermore, Fort’s experience on the right side means he can easily adapt to different tactical setups, providing Flick with more flexibility. This versatility can be particularly useful in games where Barcelona needs to switch formations or when injuries force unexpected changes.

Time to Trust in Fort

While Gerard Martín remains a dependable option, Héctor Fort’s performances warrant more trust from the coaching staff. His skill set and adaptability make him a strong candidate to take on a more prominent role in the squad, particularly as a rotational option for Balde at left-back. Giving Fort these opportunities will not only benefit the player’s growth but also strengthen the overall squad depth, ensuring that Barcelona remains competitive across all competitions.

Conclusion

As Barcelona looks to navigate a challenging season, Hansi Flick should consider giving more opportunities to Héctor Fort at left-back. His versatility, defensive prowess, and ability to contribute offensively make him a compelling alternative to Gerard Martín during rotations. By trusting in Fort, Flick can ensure a more balanced squad rotation, protect key players like Balde, and continue to develop one of the club’s most promising young talents.