Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has confirmed that new signing Rodri will miss the club’s La Liga opener against Elche on Sunday.
The former Manchester City midfielder is expected to join the squad on Monday and could make his Barcelona debut when the Spanish champions face Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.
“Rodri is very concentrated and focused. Our plan is that he will arrive on Monday with the team,” Flick told reporters on Saturday.
“He’s a fantastic player, a leader, and his personality is very great.”
Barcelona signed the Spanish World Cup winner from Manchester City in a deal that could reach €76.5 million ($89 million), strengthening a midfield that Flick believes will benefit from Rodri’s experience and leadership.
The Catalan giants, however, still have concerns in attack following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. The club continues to search for another striker before the transfer window closes.
Flick did not confirm who will lead the attack against Elche but highlighted the impressive pre-season form of Egyptian teenager Hamza Abdelkarim.
The 18-year-old scored four goals during Barcelona’s pre-season campaign and has earned praise from the manager for his performances.
“Hamza is having a really great pre-season,” Flick said.
“He’s a number nine, he’s young, and he has a lot of potential. He scored goals, and this is important when you’re playing in this position. He did a great job.”
Barcelona also have several alternatives who can operate centrally. New signings Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi can play as false nines, while Raphinha and Dani Olmo are also capable of moving into the position.
Meanwhile, Joao Cancelo is available for the trip to Elche after completing his move to Barcelona this week.
Flick praised the Portuguese full-back’s technical ability and attitude, saying he is ready to play.
“He’s ready to play. He has unbelievable technique and a lot of passion,” Flick said.
Barcelona will therefore begin their title defence without Rodri but with several new options as Flick looks to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts this season.
