Hansi Flick Calls for More Signings at Barcelona Despite Rodri Deal

Hansi Flick Pushes for Additional Signings at Barcelona After Rodri Agreement

Hansi Flick has made it clear to the Barcelona board that he wants more players brought in, even though the club is close to finalizing a £65 million transfer deal for Rodri from Manchester City.

Flick Demands Further Reinforcements

The Barcelona head coach insists that the summer transfer window is far from over despite the exciting development of securing Rodri. The German manager, who previously coached Bayern Munich, openly stated to the club's media that the team needs more signings. He said simply, "I think we need a few more players." This shows his determination to strengthen the squad more thoroughly to compete at the highest European level again.

Positive Friendly Results Highlight Areas to Improve

Following a convincing 5-2 victory over Swiss club Basel at St. Jakob's Park, Flick shared his thoughts on the team's progress. Several key players returned, including the young Spanish star Lamine Yamal, who scored a penalty in his first game since winning the World Cup. Flick was pleased overall but pinpointed aspects that still require work.

"It was a good test for us; Basel played well," Flick commented. "Maybe in the first half, we didn’t move as quickly as we wanted, both in positioning and off the ball. That’s something we have to improve. We've got potential, and I’m happy with how the test went."

He also highlighted the importance of training intensity and quality as the foundation for improvement. "The most important thing is how we train, the quality and the intensity, and that’s very good," Flick added. "I see the team’s level and that’s what counts. We’ll review this match and the training sessions before our next game."

Managing Players Ahead of La Liga Start

As the domestic season approaches, Flick is carefully monitoring player fitness. Many stars have only recently returned and need to be eased into full match action. He explained his rotation approach during the Basel friendly, saying, "Some players arrived just five days ago. We have to prepare for the game against Elche and decide who can start or play the full ninety minutes. Since only five substitutions are allowed, this affects how we manage the team."

The friendly also gave new signings a chance to impress. Karim Adeyemi opened the scoring after a setup by Raphinha, while teenage recruit Jesse Bisiwu grabbed attention by scoring twice late on. Flick remains hopeful about their development but still believes the squad depth isn’t enough for the tough season ahead, reinforcing his push for more additions alongside Rodri.

Building Up to the Joan Gamper Trophy

Barcelona now focus on the last stage of pre-season, culminating in the Joan Gamper Trophy against Egyptian side Al-Ahly. This match will serve as Flick's final chance to test tactics before the official La Liga opener against Elche on August 23.

• Transfer Fee Agreed: £65 million for Rodri
• Upcoming Matches: Joan Gamper Trophy vs Al-Ahly, La Liga opener vs Elche
• Recent Friendly Result: 5-2 win against Basel
• Key Players Featured: Lamine Yamal (penalty scorer), Karim Adeyemi, Jesse Bisiwu (brace)