La Liga: Rodri to Miss Elche Opener, Barcelona Coach Confirms
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that new signing Rodri will miss the Spanish champions’ La Liga opening fixture against Elche on Sunday. The former Manchester City midfielder may, however, be able to take part in their second match, against Athletic Bilbao, on Thursday. “He’s very concentrated, focused, our plan is that he will arrive on Monday with the team,” Flick told reporters on Saturday. “This is the plan. He’s a fantastic player, a leader, and his personality is very great.” Barca signed the Spanish World Cup winner for a fee which could rise to 76.5 million euros ($89 million) to bolster their midfield. However after Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres departed, the club are still looking for a striker in the transfer market. Flick did not reveal who would start up front at Elche but praised the pre-season form of Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdelkarim, after the 18-year-old notched four goals in friendlies. “Hamza is having a really great pre-season,” said Flick. “He’s a number nine, he’s young, and he has a lot of potential, and also he scored goals. This is the important thing when you’re playing in this position, and he made a great job.” New arrivals Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, both wingers, can also play through the middle as false nines along with Raphinha and Dani Olmo. Flick said full-back Joao Cancelo, signed this week, was available for Barcelona’s trip to the Martinez Valero stadium. “He’s ready to play. He has unbelievable technique and a lot of passion,” added Flick. AFP
