'We’ll have to talk to Deco' - Hansi Flick warns Barcelona still face No.9 dilemma after 5-0 win over Elche
Raphinha leads the attacking line
With the No.9 spot vacant, it was Raphinha who was tasked with leading the line in a makeshift role at the Martínez Valero. The Brazilian winger didn't just fill the void; he thrived in it, bagging a brace and setting the tempo for a fluid frontline that also saw Fermin Lopez score twice and new face Karim Adeyemi find the back of the net. While the scoreboard painted the picture of a flawless attacking machine, the reality of Barcelona’s striker shortage still looms large over their season.
Set for crucial transfer talks
Flick certainly isn't closing the door on a late summer signing, and fired a timely reminder to the board that attacking reinforcements remain a major priority before the summer transfer window slams shut. Speaking in his post-match press conference, the German tactician made it clear that a crucial transfer summit is on the horizon.
“We'll have to talk to Deco and we have to do whatever's best; that will be next week,” Flick admitted.
Flick hails emphatic start
Despite the looming transfer dilemma, the former Bayern Munich boss couldn't hide his satisfaction with his team's emphatic start to the campaign.
"We're delighted with the fantastic start we've made; it gives us confidence. I'm pleased with the 5–0 win and the three points," Flick added. "I was concerned about turnovers. We had to control the ball, and in the end, a clean sheet is fantastic, and five goals is great."
Race against time for Barcelona
The ball is now firmly in Deco’s court. With the summer transfer window shutting at the end of the month, the Barcelona sporting director faces a frantic race against time to scour the market for a reliable No. 9 who fits the club's tight financial parameters. Meanwhile, Flick and his squad will return to Catalonia to prepare for their first home fixture of the season, hoping their attacking firepower can hold the fort until reinforcements arrive.
