Barcelona’s pre-season goal count sparks concern before new campaign

Barcelona have scored only three goals in their opening three pre-season matches, increasing concern over their attacking output before the new season begins, despite a promising contribution from Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim.

Hansi Flick has faced an unusual set of circumstances during Barcelona’s preparations. The World Cup has disrupted the club’s schedule and means that international players are joining the squad later than usual. The final group of players is not expected to arrive until 12 August, leaving Flick with a limited period in which to work with his full squad.

Barcelona’s first three friendly matches were against Birmingham, Nottingham Forest and Udinese. Two of those matches were played over 45 minutes, rather than the usual 90, but the games still highlighted a clear need for the team to become more productive in front of goal.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s pre-season fixtures have exposed a decline in their scoring output. The concern comes as the club deals with the departure of Robert Lewandowski and the possibility that Ferran Torres could also leave.

The Catalan side have managed just three goals so far. Two came from penalties, while the other was scored after following up on a rebound. Abdelkarim has scored twice, with Brazil forward Raphinha providing the only other goal.

The figures have placed greater focus on Barcelona’s attacking options as the team approaches the final stages of its preparations. Although Abdelkarim has taken advantage of his opportunities, the overall number of goals remains low and leaves Flick needing greater efficiency from the squad.

Barcelona’s next opportunity to improve that record comes against Basel in a friendly on 16 August. They will then play the Joan Gamper Trophy on 19 August, giving Flick two more matches before the new season gets under way.

The timing of the international players’ return means the manager is still waiting to assess his complete group. The final arrivals on 12 August will come only a few days before the meeting with Basel and one week before the Joan Gamper Trophy.

For now, Abdelkarim’s two goals offer an encouraging individual storyline, while Raphinha has also found the net. However, the team’s total of three goals including the two penalties and the rebound finish has made Barcelona’s attacking form one of the main issues of their pre-season.

With Lewandowski already gone and Torres potentially following him out of the club, Barcelona’s limited return in front of goal is likely to remain a point of attention during the remaining preparation matches. Flick will have the chance to work with more of his international players once the final group reports, but the club’s early results show that improving its scoring record is an immediate priority.