Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has been quizzed on the No. 9 situation at the club after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres and amid reported interest in Julian Alvarez.
The Catalans are yet to sign a new striker for the team but Flick says he’s already decided who will play in the position on Sunday when Barca start their season against Elche.
“We have many options within the team. Of course I know who will play. There might be a surprise tomorrow,” he told reporters.
Flick was also
asked directly about Alvarez and insists he’s not worried that Barca are yet to sign a new attacker.
“I’m not worried that we haven’t signed a number 9 yet,” he added.
“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.”
The Barcelona boss also spoke about the changes in attack this summer and feels the quality in the squad has increased.
“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 busy week on their return to action. The defending champions head to Elche on Sunday, face Athletic Club on Thursday and then play Rayo next Monday.
