LaLiga: Barca’s new arrival Rodri to miss Elche opener

Barcelona's highly anticipated new signing, Spanish international Rodrigo Hernandez, commonly known as Rodri, will not feature in the team's opening La Liga match against Elche on Sunday. Coach Hansi Flick confirmed that the midfielder is currently focused and is slated to join the squad on Monday, with the possibility of participating in their subsequent game against Athletic Bilbao.

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He’s very concentrated, focused, our plan is that he will arrive on Monday with the team. This is the plan. He’s a fantastic player, a leader, and his personality is very great.

Flick expressed his confidence in Rodri, describing him as a fantastic player and a leader with a great personality. Barcelona acquired the Spanish World Cup winner for a transfer fee that could escalate to 76.5 million euros, aiming to bolster their midfield strength. However, following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, the club is actively searching for a new striker.

While Flick did not disclose who would start upfront against Elche, he commended the pre-season efforts of 18-year-old Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim, who scored four goals in friendly matches. Flick highlighted Abdelkarim's potential as a number nine. Additionally, wingers Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, along with Raphinha and Dani Olmo, can also operate as false nines.

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Hamza is having a really great pre-season. 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.

In other team news, new full-back Joao Cancelo, who was signed earlier in the week, has been deemed available for Barcelona's trip to the Martinez Valero stadium. Flick noted Cancelo's readiness to play, praising his exceptional technique and passion for the game.

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He’s ready to play. He has unbelievable technique and a lot of passion.