Flick and the hiring of a ‘9’: “We know we have to do something”

The coach of FC Barcelona, Hansi Flick, acknowledged this Monday that the club is working on the incorporation of a center forward to complete the squad for the new season and has assured that both he and the sports management are aware that they must reinforce that position after the departure of Robert Lewandowski.

“We have to wait. I have total confidence in Deco, we know we have to do something. It also depends on Ferran. We’ll see what happens,” said the German coach during a media appearance after concluding the preseason ‘stage’ in St. George’s Park (England).

Despite this, Flick recalled that the squad has different alternatives for attack and highlighted the versatility of several of its players. “Playing with a false nine? It will depend on the squad we have. Lamine played in this position one or two games with us. He is a fantastic player, a world-class player, and he can also adapt. Gordon can play on both wings and as a center forward. So, in reality, we have many options,” he explained.

On the other hand, he was calmer regarding the midfield despite Frenkie de Jong’s injury. “We always think about improving our team, in what is best for them. But, for now, I think we have a lot of midfield players. That’s how it is. And we will see what happens in the coming weeks,” he commented.

Flick also gave a very positive assessment of the concentration in England, which he described as “a great experience” and even as “one of the best stages” he has “ever done.” “The conditions have been excellent, everything has gone very well,” he said before praising the level of the young people from La Masia.

“I think that this season we have more quality among the first team players and also among the young people at La Masia. Ebrima is an extraordinary talent, Orian too. Xavi Espart had a very good game against Birmingham and everyone is showing a great level in training,” he stated.

The coach also highlighted the qualities of the newcomer Bisiwu. “He is a player with talent and speed. The plan is for him to train with us,” he said. In addition, he announced that Alejandro Balde is progressing favorably from his physical problems and was confident that he can play in the next friendly against Udinese, while Héctor Fort highlighted that “he is very fast and technically very good.”

Finally, Flick was convinced that the team will maintain its ambition after the titles won last season. “Champions never stop. They know how to win titles and that is very important. If you work hard and are focused every day, in the end you achieve special things. And that is also what we want to achieve this season,” he concluded.