La Liga: New arrival Rodri to miss Elche opener, says Barca’s coach

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Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said new signing Rodri would not be involved in the Spanish champions’ La Liga opener against Elche on Sunday.

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The former Manchester City midfielder may, however, be able to take part in their second match, against Athletic Bilbao, on Thursday.

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“He’s very concentrated, focused, our plan is that he will arrive on Monday with the team,” Flick told reporters on Saturday.

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“This is the plan. He’s a fantastic player, a leader, and his personality is very great.”

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Barca signed the Spanish World Cup winner for a fee which could rise to 76.5 million euros ($89 million) to bolster their midfield.

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However after Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres departed, the club are still looking for a striker in the transfer market.

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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.

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“Hamza is having a really great pre-season,” said Flick.

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“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.”

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New arrivals Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, both wingers, can also play through the middle as false nines along with Raphinha and Dani Olmo.

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Flick said full-back Joao Cancelo, signed this week, was available for Barcelona’s trip to the Martinez Valero stadium.

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“He’s ready to play. He has unbelievable technique and a lot of passion,” added Flick.

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AFP

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