Barcelona maintains strong form despite failing to sign Julian Alvarez

Barcelona has recorded 17 goals across four matches while operating without a traditional number nine. Following the summer departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, the club sought to acquire Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid but ultimately missed the transfer deadline. Hansi Flick has utilized a fluid attacking system, with Raphinha playing as a deeper-lying striker alongside Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez. Anthony Gordon has also joined the squad, while Gabriel Jesus was signed as a backup forward option. Despite reports of potential future interest in Alvarez, the current offensive production has eased pressure on the club to force a transfer move for an additional center-forward.

• 12:45 PMYahoo Sports — No Julian, no problem – Barcelona thriving despite missing out on priority target