Flick confident despite striker search

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has been quizzed on the No.9 situation at Camp Nou after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres and amid reported interest in Julian Alvarez. Speaking ahead of the season opener, Flick insisted he is not concerned the club have not signed a new striker yet.

"I’m not worried that we haven’t signed a number 9 yet," Flick said. "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. Deco is doing a fantastic job."

Surprise starter teased for Elche

Flick confirmed he already knows who will lead the line when Barcelona start their campaign against Elche on Sunday, while keeping the identity under wraps.

"We have many options within the team. Of course I know who will play. There might be a surprise tomorrow," he told reporters.

The coach also addressed the broader changes in attack this summer, arguing squad quality has improved.

"There have been a lot of changes, 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."

Barcelona have a packed start to the season. The defending champions travel to Elche on Sunday, face Athletic Club on Thursday and then play Rayo Vallecano next Monday.