Flick teases surprise striker option for Barca
Hansi Flick has hinted at a surprise striker option for Barcelona ahead of its LaLiga opener against Elche on Monday (AEST), with the German insisting he is not worried about his side’s options up front.
After the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, Barcelona’s leading centre-forwards last season, there has been plenty of discussion over its replacements, or lack thereof.
The Blaugrana were heavily linked with Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez throughout the summer, but a deal now appears unlikely, with Atletico boss Diego Simeone confirming that the Argentinean will remain at in the capital this season.
Nonetheless, Barcelona has strengthened irs attack with the signings of Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, alongside the high-profile arrivals of Joao Cancelo and 2024 Ballon d'Or winner and Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup-winning captain Rodri, who opted to join Barca over rival Real Madrid.
Despite the lack of a recognised striker in the squad, Flick remains confident in the options available to him, while also praising the work of Barcelona sporting director Deco.
"We have many options within the team," the Barca boss said. "Of course, I know who will play. There might even be a surprise tomorrow.
"I'm not worried that we haven't signed a No. 9 yet. I don't like to talk about players from other teams.
"Deco and I talk every day. It's all about the team and the club. Only Deco, I, and a few other people know exactly what we want. He is doing a fantastic job.
"There have been a lot of changes in the squad, but sometimes it’s good to change things in the dressing room.
"That way, everyone is aware of it. We’ve brought in top-level players, and the quality is higher. In the end, this is a competition, and everyone is competing to play.
"This makes the players stronger, helps them improve, and makes the team grow. That’s how titles are won. It's a privilege to be able to train every day with this enormous quality.
"I told the players that the quality is very good, but tomorrow the important stuff starts. We have to get off to a good start and with a win."
Ahead of hosting the Spanish champion, meanwhile, Elche was held to a 1-1 draw by Deportivo de A Coruna in midweek.
