The head coach of FC Barcelona, Hansi Flick, has strongly suggested that the Catalan outfit could close the summer transfer window without signing a star striker in case their attempt to sign Argentine striker Julián Álvarez from Atlético Madrid does not come to fruition prior to the transfer deadline.
While speaking at a pre-match press conference before the La Liga clash between Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao, the German tactician replied to the media queries concerning the club’s need for reinforcements in attack. As it was mentioned earlier, the recent exit of the club’s star striker Robert Lewandowski as well as of another attacking player, Ferran Torres, during the summer period has raised a number of questions.
However, with Atlético Madrid maintaining a firm stance on their financial demands, Flick made it clear that the coaching staff is prepared to navigate the season using internal roster solutions.
Central to Flick’s alternative plan is 18-year-old Egyptian prospect Hamza Abdelkarim. Having originally joined the club from Cairo giants Al Ahly, Abdelkarim delivered impressive performances during Barcelona’s pre-season tour, scoring four goals in friendly matches and demonstrating strong tactical intelligence in central attacking areas. In recognition of his development, Barcelona has officially registered Abdelkarim with the first-team squad for the 2026–27 La Liga campaign, assigning him the No. 29 jersey.
Flick emphasised that while every manager desires elite reinforcements, long-term operational stability and squad balance must take precedence over reactionary market moves. He expressed complete trust in Deco’s sporting management, noting that the club must focus on building a sustainable structure for the next three to five years rather than focusing exclusively on immediate short-term fixes. With new wingers Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi already integrated into the frontline, Abdelkarim stands out as a viable central option alongside versatile attackers within the existing setup.
Additionally, Flick highlighted the immediate tactical boost provided by summer signing Rodri, who is set to make his competitive debut against Athletic Bilbao. The manager expressed strong enthusiasm for pairing the veteran Spanish midfielder alongside Pedri, describing their partnership as a world-class foundation capable of controlling match tempo and commanding possession against top-tier opposition. Should the deal for Álvarez fall through, Flick reiterated that Barcelona possesses more than enough technical quality and tactical flexibility to remain competitive across all competitions this season.
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