Hamza's inclusion and a surprise exclusion: Flick announces Barcelona squad for Elche clash

The first official appearance in La Liga

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has announced his squad for Sunday's match against Elche in the second round of the Spanish league.

Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim, who impressed greatly during pre-season, earns a place in the squad. Flick left out Rodri, however, ruling him short of readiness after he missed Saturday's group training session, along with Balde, who is close to leaving Barça this summer.

Hector Fort and Marc Casado also miss out today through a technical decision, and both look likely to leave the club this summer.

Barcelona have held the Spanish league title for the last two seasons.

Barça's full squad for the Elche match was as follows:

Joan Garcia - Szczesny - Eder - Gavi - Fermin - Pedri - Olmo - Bernal - Bryan Farinas - Cancelo - Cubarsi - Christensen - Gerard Martin - Kounde - Eric Garcia - Cortes - Bisquer - Espart - Lamine Yamal - Raphinha - Ademi - Gordon - Hamza Abdelkarim.