Barcelona names three players as untouchables ahead of long-overdue squad overhaul

After the harsh reality check in the form of an early exit from the UEFA Champions League, Barcelona are ready to make some major changes to their roster.

Speaking after the disappointing defeat to Bayern Munich, manager Xavi Hernandez insisted that changes were necessary to take the team back to the top. And, that seems set to start with a squad overhaul in the upcoming couple of transfer windows.

Earlier reports suggested that the Blaugrana had already decided to put goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen on sale while they would also study offers for Frenkie de Jong and Sergino Dest.

However, now Jordi Grau (via TV3 h/t Albert Roge), has claimed that the Catalan heavyweights regard just three players as untouchables in the squad, with them being La Masia products Ansu Fati, Gavi and Nico Gonzalez.

The update claims that that the remaining players on the squad will have to earn their place in the side between now and the end of the season.

It is also believed that Barca will now listen to offers for the rest of the stars, including those that are believed as key, while they will also be open to the possibility of terminating contracts in case the club are unable to offload someone they wish to part ways with.

It seems like Xavi is taking no prisoners after the meek surrender against Bayern Munich earlier in the week. In Ansu Fati, Gavi and Nico Gonzalez, he has a core of young, homegrown talent that he can build the team around.

Pedri, once fully fit from his injury woes, and Ronald Araujo could also be considered a part of this core, although the latter’s contract situation needs addressing, with his current deal expiring in 18 months. As for the rest of the players, even though it is impossible that Barcelona upend the entire squad, it could very well be a case of perform or perish.