Spanish midfielder Rodri, aged 30, will not make his debut for Barcelona in the season opener against Elche on Sunday at 22:30. This announcement was made by Hansi Flick, the coach of the Spanish champions.
Rodri, who joined from Manchester City, is currently dealing with back problems that have persisted since late July. He is expected to make his debut for Barcelona on Thursday at 22:00 against Athletic Bilbao.
Flick noted, “He is very focused and training hard. We plan to have him join the team on Monday,” adding, “This is the plan. He is a fantastic player, a leader, and a strong personality.” Barcelona paid around €80 million for the newly crowned world champion.
Hansi Flick: “New Striker? Abdelkarim Has Done an Excellent Job”
Following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, the club is still searching for a striker; however, Flick is not concerned. The German coach praised young Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim, aged 18, who scored four goals in preseason matches.
“He is a box striker, young, has great potential, and has scored goals. That’s what is important for his position. He has done an excellent job,” Flick commented. Among the new players, wingers Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, as well as right-back Joao Cancelo, will be available for the match against Elche.
“All of them are ready to play. Cancelo has incredible technique and a great enthusiasm,” Flick added.
