FC Barcelona: Hansi Flick unveils his plan for the number 9 position

With no established striker, Hansi Flick prepares a temporary solution while waiting for a new signing

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FC Barcelona: Hansi Flick unveils his plan for the number 9 position

After the departures of Lewandowski and Rashford, Barça is still searching for its leading striker as the start of La Liga approaches.

The hunt for the number 9 continues to make headlines at FC Barcelona. Robert Lewandowski has left Catalonia for MLS, while the option to buy Marcus Rashford, set at 30 million euros by Manchester United, was not exercised. Hansi Flick therefore has no proven center forward to lead a squad aiming above all for the Champions League after two consecutive eliminations in the quarterfinals and then the semifinals.

Raphinha temporarily deployed as number 9

According to the latest reports, Raphinha has been tested several times through the middle during training sessions. However, this remains a stopgap solution. The Brazilian has the mobility and efficiency needed to fill in, but Barça cannot realistically go through an entire season without a true specialist in the role.

Flick expresses confidence in Hamza Abdelkarim

Asked about the situation, Flick declined to reveal his priorities:

"I’m not worried about the number nine. I don’t talk about players who aren’t in my squad. I speak with Deco to strengthen the team. Only Deco, myself, and a few others know what we want."

The German then praised Hamza Abdelkarim:

"Hamza is having an excellent preseason, he’s a good number nine and he scores goals, which is very important for his position. It’s a privilege to see the level at which they’re training."

Julián Álvarez remains the top priority

The 18-year-old Egyptian, signed permanently until 2029, has netted six goals in eleven games with the reserves. However, he still lacks experience at the highest level. The club therefore continues its search for a top-class striker. Julián Álvarez remains the main target, but Atlético de Madrid is unwilling to let him go. Barça will finally kick off their La Liga campaign away at Elche, Sunday, August 23 at 9:30 pm in Spain, at the Martínez-Valero stadium.