Barcelona's young players are ready to compete again for a place in the first team
July 27, 2026 ·
Barcelona youngster Hector Fort returns from a loan spell at Elche and is ready to compete for the right-back position in the first team, especially after Jules Kounde's less than consistent performances last season.
Young Barcelona Players Are Again Ready to Compete for Places in the First Team
According to Sports.
Background
Hector Fort, just 19 years old, returns from a loan spell at Elche with valuable experience and a desire to compete in Barcelona's first team. With his third season in the top league, Fort is determined to not only be a cover, but also contribute significantly to the team's performance, especially in the context of a solid defense and a more dynamic attack.
Why this is important
Hector Fort's return to Barcelona adds depth to the right-back position, which was in the spotlight after Jules Kounde's inconsistent performance last season. With Fort now more mature and having better attacking instincts, coach Hansi Flick has additional options to strengthen the team's defense. This could have a significant impact on next season, especially in Barcelona's efforts to return to competing at the highest level.
Main Points
- Young Barcelona Players Are Again Ready to Compete for Places in the First Team.
- Hector Fort, Barcelona youngster, returns from a loan spell at Elche and is ready to compete for the right-back position in the first team, especially after Jules Kounde's less consistent performances last season.
- Returning Barcelona youth player ready to compete for a place in the first-team next season.
Next season, one of the biggest questions regarding Barcelona's defense will be the right-back position. Jules Kounde's less consistent performance last season made many people question his future in that position. Several recent reports suggest that Eric Garcia could be a better alternative for coach Hansi Flick. However, opportunities are also open for young players like Hector Fort to show their abilities.
Hector Fort, just 19 years old, returned to Barcelona after a loan spell at Elche. With the experience gained, he returned with a clear mission: to stay and fight for a place in the first team. During his loan spell, Fort developed into a more mature player and had better attacking instincts under the tutelage of Eder Sarabia. Despite his youth, this is already his third season in the top flight, and he feels ready to compete for the right-back position, rather than going back out on loan.
Fort wasted no time in showing his abilities. In a training match, he scored in Barcelona's 4–1 win over CE Europa, with a powerful and purposeful finish after sneaking in from behind following a combination with Shane Kluivert. This goal showed significant improvement, with his new attacking instincts adding to what Flick wants from his full-backs.
The German coach gave Fort a chance two seasons ago, but felt he needed more experience before competing at the highest level, so he was sent out on loan. Barcelona have been closely monitoring Fort's progress over the past season and they are satisfied with what they have seen. Now, Fort has the opportunity to prove that the club's faith in him is not in vain.
More importantly, competition in this position may not be as fierce as previously thought. Kounde, who was the undisputed starter when Fort struggled for minutes, endured an inconsistent season and no longer looks irreplaceable. The presence of Joao Cancelo, who may join permanently, also does not completely close the door for Fort, considering that Cancelo previously adapted to the left-back position last season.
The pre-season has just started, and the friendly matches are getting more and more challenging. The upcoming tour of England with games against Birmingham City and Nottingham Forest will give Fort two more opportunities to show his worth, and he has already taken the first steps towards a place in the first team.
What happened next
Fort is expected to fight for a place in the first team, competing with Kounde and Eric Garcia. His promising performance in training shows that he is ready for the challenge. If he continues to show progress, Fort could be a long-term solution for the right-back position, which is very important for Barcelona's playing strategy in the coming season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the result of Barcelona's match against CE Europa?
Barcelona won 4-1 over CE Europa.
Which young players are returning to Barcelona after a loan spell at Elche?
Hector Fort returns to Barcelona after a loan spell at Elche.
What position is Hector Fort competing for in Barcelona?
Hector Fort is competing for the right-back position at Barcelona.
Who was the Barcelona coach who gave Hector Fort a chance?
The Barcelona coach who gave Hector Fort the opportunity was Hansi Flick.
What impact will Hector Fort's return have on Barcelona's first team?
Hector Fort's return provides an opportunity for Barcelona to consider alternatives in the right-back position, especially with Jules Kounde's inconsistent performance.