Barça without a striker
Barça starts the La Liga season without a striker. Hansi Flick, who had already shown his authority in Spain, is left without a 9 after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, who left for PSG for €48.5 million. The German coach has said he is not worried about the lack of a striker, but acknowledges the need for a first-level player to compete.
Searching for a new striker
According to Flick, the blue-green entity plans to close the signing of a striker before the transfer window ends. Lautaro Martínez has been mentioned as a possible target, though nothing has been confirmed. The club has stated that it has plans B, C and D, but has not revealed more names.
Training and alternatives
In the last training before traveling to Martínez Valero, Flick tried Raphinha as a 9, surrounded by Lamine Yamal and Adeyemi. He trusts Hamza, whom he described as having a very good pre-season, and Gordon, who is also a Flick pick. In addition, the club signed Rodri, backed by Laporta and signed by Deco, as part of its strategy of top-level reinforcements.
Balde’s situation and defense
Alejandro Balde, left-back, has begun to lose strength in the starting XI last season and does not seem to have his role enhanced in the new season. In this Saturday’s training he was a substitute, with the youth player Espart taking his place. Flick said he needs all players to be one hundred percent and committed.
Financial situation and recent signings
The club has made several star signings: Cancelo joined the team, and the sporting director already has the patronal’s approval for all reinforcements. The financial moves include Ansu Fati’s exit to Monaco for €11 million, Iñaki Peña to Panathinaikos for €3 million, Ferran Torres to PSG for €48.5 million, Tommy Marqués to Braga for €11 million, and the loan of Araújo to Liverpool for €12 million in wages. With a margin of about €85 million, Barça seeks to make room in the league salary cap to register the 9.
Next match
The next match will be against Elche on Sunday at 21:30, where Barça will begin its title defence.
