Barcelona boss Hansi Flick hints at attacking surprise for Elche

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick says there could be a surprise in attack when his side begin their La Liga campaign against Elche on Sunday.

The Catalan club travel to face Elche in the second round of La Liga, having had their opening fixture postponed because of their players’ involvement in the World Cup and to ensure they received a longer period of rest in accordance with competition regulations.

Flick confirmed he already knows who will lead Barcelona’s attack, but declined to reveal his selection.

“The striker against Elche? Of course I know who will play. We have many options within the squad. Perhaps there will be a surprise tomorrow,” he said at his pre-match news conference.

The Barcelona manager also praised Hamza for his performances during pre-season. The young forward has impressed during the build-up to the new campaign, scoring goals and showing his qualities as a natural striker.

“Hamza has been performing excellently during pre-season. He is a natural striker, a young player with great potential, and he has scored goals. He has done a great job,” Flick said.

Flick was also asked about a possible move for Julian Alvarez, but reiterated that he would not discuss players contracted to other clubs.

“As for Julian Alvarez, I have said before that I do not talk about players from other teams,” he added.

Rodri has returned to some training on the pitch, and Flick said he was pleased to have the midfielder at the club. The Barcelona boss described him as an outstanding player and a leader with a strong personality, while confirming the plan for him to join the first-team group on Monday.

“Rodri has trained a little on the pitch. I am happy to have him here; he is a great player, a leader and has a wonderful personality. Our plan is for him to join the team next Monday,” said Flick.

There was also uncertainty over whether Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde could leave before the transfer window closes. Flick acknowledged that changes remained possible as Barcelona assess how best to strengthen the squad.

“When you bring in new players, you think about how to make the team very strong. Changes may happen, and we will have to wait until the end of the transfer window,” he said.

Joao Cancelo, who completed a permanent move to Barcelona a few days ago, is available for the trip to Elche. Flick said the Portugal international could feature and highlighted the qualities he brings to the side.

“He is ready to play and, yes, he can play tomorrow. In my opinion, he has outstanding technical ability. He is a very passionate player and gave us a lot last season. He was always at his best in the right position. In attack, he gave us more options and helped us win La Liga,” Flick said.

Barcelona will then play Athletic Bilbao on Thursday in a rearranged fixture from the opening round of the league season. Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid also had matches postponed because of their players’ World Cup commitments and the requirement to provide them with a longer rest period under the regulations.