Karim Adeyemi’s Barcelona impact highlights Hansi Flick’s faith in seven-goal win

Karim Adeyemi produced a lively display for Barcelona in their emphatic 7-2 La Liga victory over Racing Santander, offering further evidence that Hansi Flick’s decision to back the German forward is paying off.

Adeyemi, 24, returned to the pitch with a broad smile and made the most of the opportunity to underline his value, even though he did not get on the scoresheet.

His performance was widely praised by Mundo Deportivo, who wrote: “He smiles. He runs. He runs a lot, without stopping. Speed is one of his strengths. He enjoys himself, and the Camp Nou crowd responds to that enthusiasm.”

The Germany forward finished the match with eight shots, six successful dribbles, four chances created, five ball recoveries and two crosses. He also won two penalties and provided an assist, while creating the constant impression that something could happen whenever he received the ball.

Adeyemi was influential from the opening minute. His pace stretched the Racing Santander defence and turned Barcelona’s left flank into a fast-moving outlet, particularly when he combined with Cancelo.

Following Flick’s instructions, he repeatedly attacked the space behind the defence, ran beyond opponents and changed the tempo of the game. Racing Santander struggled to contain Barcelona’s attacking pressure, with Adeyemi playing a significant part in keeping them under strain.

He came close to scoring after receiving a through ball from Pedri. Adeyemi controlled the pass before attempting to lift the ball over goalkeeper Aguirrezabala, but his delicate effort went narrowly wide of the post.

The missed chance did little to diminish his influence. He continued to beat defenders, create openings and draw fouls, with his energy helping to keep the Camp Nou crowd engaged.

Both penalties came as a result of his acceleration and direct running. The second was awarded after another burst into the area ended with Iker Luque bringing him down.

With the match seemingly settled, Adeyemi produced one final decisive contribution. In the 89th minute, he won the ball, surged forward, beat his marker and carried it into the penalty area before crossing for Lamine Yamal, who finished the move by finding the net.

There was still time for another moment of flair in stoppage time, when Adeyemi nearly scored with an acrobatic effort. The attempt was greeted by loud applause from the Camp Nou supporters.

Adeyemi completed 74 touches and attempted 42 passes, with an 85.7% success rate. He won possession five times and was fouled on four occasions.

His display showed he was not simply a winger waiting to receive the ball and sprint forward. He remained involved throughout the game and contributed effectively to Barcelona’s attacks – another successful decision by Flick, who backed him this summer.