New arrival Rodri to miss Elche opener, says Barca’s Flick
Coach Hansi Flick says the former Manchester City midfielder could make his debut against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.
Barcelona's new signing Rodri will miss the club's opening La Liga match against Elche on Sunday, according to coach Hansi Flick. The Spanish World Cup winner, whose transfer fee could exceed $89 million, may participate in the team's subsequent game against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday. Flick expressed confidence in Rodri, describing him as a "fantastic player" and "leader" with great personality.
The Barcelona coach also highlighted the promising pre-season performance of 18-year-old Egyptian winger Hamza Abdelkarim, praising his goal-scoring ability and potential. With striker Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres already departing, Barcelona continues to seek a forward in the transfer market. Flick did not specify which striker would start against Elche but commended Hamza's performance.
Additionally, the coach announced that wingers Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, as well as Raphinha and Dani Olmo, can also play through the middle as false nines alongside the newly acquired full-back Joao Cancelo, who is ready for the Martinez Valero Stadium match.
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- New arrival Rodri to miss Elche opener, says Barca’s Flick freemalaysiatoday.com
