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Barcelona prepares for La Liga opener against Elche with fresh roster options

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 1:18 PM

Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Barcelona prepares for La Liga opener against Elche with fresh roster options

Summary

Barcelona is set to begin its La Liga title defense against Elche on Sunday. Coach Hansi Flick suggested potential lineup surprises, including 18-year-old striker Hamza Abdelkarim, who recently had his loan from Al Ahly made permanent. Flick expressed confidence in the team’s depth after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, noting that they have signed high-quality players. New signing Rodri will miss the match, while João Cancelo may take the field. Flick emphasized the importance of a strong start to the season, stating that competition within the squad is beneficial for overall performance.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Barcelona faces Elche in La Liga opener on Sunday
•Hansi Flick hints at lineup surprises
•Hamza Abdelkarim could feature after permanent signing
•Rodri to miss the match; Cancelo might play
•Flick focused on strong start to the season

Latest Updates

1:18 PMYahoo Sports — Flick hints at ‘surprises’ with Abdelkarim in the mix for Barcelona

What they're saying

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Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said there may be “surprises” when his team play Elche on Sunday. The champions begin the defence of their La Liga title in Alicante after they fended off Real Madrid to win a second consecutive crown in May.
— Yahoo Sports

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