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Barça News Hansi Flick opens up on Barcelona’s striker hunt, praises Hamza Abdelkarim: ‘We’re looking for that player’ Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has made it clear that the club is looking to strengthen their attack before the transfer window closes, despite the encouraging form of young striker Hamza Abdelkarim during pre-season. Speaking after Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Al-Ahly in the Gamper Trophy, Flick did not reveal the identity of the player the club is targeting. However, his comments left little doubt that he expects another attacking arrival to complete the squad. The German coach praised sporting director Deco for his work in the market, particularly following the arrival of Rodri. But with Barcelona preparing to begin their La Liga campaign away at Elche, the search for a new No. 9 remains an important part of the club’s plans. Flick’s comments come after Deco himself confirmed that Barcelona were still considering further moves in the transfer market following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. Hansi Flick confirms Barcelona striker search Barcelona’s need for a centre-forward has become one of the biggest talking points around the club this summer, especially following Lewandowski’s departure. Flick was asked about the possibility of another signing after the Gamper Trophy win, and although he avoided naming a target, he confirmed that the sporting department is still working on it. “We’re looking for that player and Deco is doing a great job,” Flick said as reported by Mundo Deportivo. The Barcelona manager also spoke positively about Rodri and explained why the club were pleased to bring him in. “Rodri proved at the World Cup that he was one of the best; he gave the team structure, organises the play well, can decide whether to play faster or slower – he’s a leader.” Rodri’s arrival has added another important option to Flick’s squad, but Barcelona’s transfer business may not be finished yet. The centre-forward position remains under close watch as the club looks to find the right profile to lead the attack. Hamza Abdelkarim earns Flick’s praise Hamza Abdelkarim has given Flick plenty to think about during pre-season. The young forward finished as Barcelona’s top scorer in preparation, finding the net four times, and he once again showed his qualities against his former club Al-Ahly. Flick was pleased with what he saw from the striker and highlighted the areas of his game that stood out. “Hamza is a good striker. We can see that when he gets on the end of crosses. “Today I saw him holding onto the ball, which is good. That’s what I want to see from him.” The German also faces the challenge of managing several players who returned late following their international commitments. “It won’t be easy; many players arrived last week and we need to manage their playing time.” He added, “We’ve got quality, a fantastic team, and we have to manage it because we’re already heading straight into the start of the season.” Barcelona will now turn their attention to Sunday’s La Liga opener against Elche, with Flick making it clear that the team have only one objective. “On Sunday, only a win in Elche will do. They’re playing well, but we have to be prepared. I liked the team today; we’ve got the potential to improve,” he concluded.