Hansi Flick backs Deco to find Barcelona striker as he outlines what Rodri would bring

Hansi Flick says he has complete confidence in Barcelona sporting director Deco to secure a new striker this summer, while praising Rodri’s ability to bring control, experience and leadership to the midfield.

Flick was speaking after Barcelona ended their preparations with a 2-1 victory over Egyptian club Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy on Wednesday evening.

The Barcelona manager also highlighted the qualities Rodri could offer the team, describing the Spain midfielder as someone capable of managing the pace and rhythm of matches through his decision-making.

“I think Rodri showed at the World Cup that he was the best player… and he is good with the ball at his feet,” Flick said.

The German added: “He is a player who can make decisions. He can decide when to play faster or slower. That is what we want, a player like him, who has experience. He is a leader on the pitch and in the dressing room.”

Flick’s comments came as Barcelona continue to prepare for the start of their La Liga campaign, with the club still working to strengthen their attacking options before the summer transfer window closes.

Asked about the search for a striker, Flick said: “We are looking for this player. Deco is doing a great job, and I trust him blindly.”

Barcelona will begin their league season on Sunday away to Elche at the Manuel Martinez Valero stadium. Their opening fixture was postponed because several of their players had reached the latter stages of the World Cup.

Flick believes the opening weeks of the campaign will be demanding, particularly after a difficult pre-season in which a number of players only joined the squad a week ago.

“This year will not be easy,” he said. “The preparation period was not easy because many players only arrived a week ago. We have to use all the matches we have to manage the minutes and get the players to the highest level possible.”

Barcelona face a further test against Elche, who Flick believes have shown good form in recent matches.

“I think we have difficult games ahead of us,” he said. “Elche have played very good football recently. But we have quality and we have a great team. We have to manage that, because I think the international break did not make things easier for us. But we are heading directly into the season and we have very good and very positive feelings.”

The victory over Al Ahly completed Barcelona’s pre-season schedule. Hamza Abdelkarim gave the hosts the lead before Raphinha equalised from the penalty spot. Ahmed Sayed Zizo then scored Al Ahly’s only goal as Barcelona secured a 2-1 win.

Flick’s side will now turn their attention to their delayed La Liga opener, while Deco continues to work on adding the striker the manager believes Barcelona need.