German coach Hansi Flick, head coach of Barcelona's first team, made statements regarding the "number 9 striker," raising questions about the future of young Egyptian forward Hamza Abdel Karim.
Flick Finds His Solution in Raphinha
Barcelona entered the season without a dedicated striker following Robert Lewandowski's departure and the failure to sign Argentine Julián Álvarez from Atlético Madrid.
In the initial La Liga matches, Flick chose Raphinha as the starting striker, and the Brazilian repaid his trust by scoring five goals in three games.
Ahead of the Valencia vs. Barcelona match, Flick explained his reasoning, noting that Gabriel Jesus is ready to play and might get a few minutes at Mestalla Stadium, but only in the second half.
Flick stated: "Raphinha is our best option for the number 9 striker position."
He added: "Raphinha always drops deep even when playing as a number 9; he needs to be involved in build-up play, and he is currently our best option in this role. Raphinha possesses pressing ability, enthusiasm, and speed. We always focus on what we do. Raphinha defends well and has excellent physical fitness. For me, he is our best option in this position."
Will Flick's Statement Affect Hamza's Future?
Flick's remarks have sparked speculation about Hamza Abdel Karim's future, especially after his impressive pre-season performance where he scored four goals, before coming on as a substitute in the previous match against Rayo Vallecano.
However, Flick's comments do not necessarily mean Hamza is out of his plans, particularly given Barcelona's move to secure the player by increasing his contract's release clause, alongside his inclusion in the squad list for the UEFA Champions League.
According to the Spanish newspaper "La Vanguardia," Flick wants a number 9 striker who can also serve as the first line of defense, a trait that Raphinha possesses.
But Raphinha is not the only option; the coaching staff also believes Dani Olmo, Fermín, and Gordon are capable of filling this role, in addition to young Egyptian striker Hamza Abdel Karim, with whom Barcelona is currently negotiating to increase his contract's release clause.
