Barça's squad returned to training eager to start a new era under Flick's leadership. After an intense and high-profile vacation, several players came back with renewed energy and a hunger for the spotlight. However, not all the attention was on the ball, but also on the new coach's decisions.
During these days, some first-team footballers took the opportunity to rest and disconnect in exotic destinations. Gavi and Pedri traveled together to Africa and Ronald Araújo got married in a private ceremony. However, the most talked-about event was Lamine Yamal's birthday party.
Flick doesn't want another physical scare with Lamine and demands an immediate reinforcement for the right wing
The young winger celebrated his 18th birthday surrounded by familiar faces and with a celebration befitting his new media profile. However, the festive atmosphere disappeared as soon as Hansi Flick took charge again. The German coach wants to strengthen his attacking trio and prevent Yamal from ending the season exhausted again.
Since his arrival, Flick has made his need for internal competition in every position clear. Although Lamine is the club's future, the coach considers it a mistake to overload him with minutes and pressure. He has already warned the sporting management that he needs a versatile and competitive profile on the wing.
The club's initial targets have fallen one by one. Nico Williams preferred to renew, Luis Díaz is heading to Bayern, and Rafael Leao has closed the door. In this scenario, Flick has pointed directly to a player he already knows very well and who would fit perfectly into his play style.
The dark horse who could revolutionize the culé attack
The name that has burst onto the blaugrana agenda is Christopher Nkunku. The French striker, now at Chelsea, hasn't managed to establish himself in the Premier League and is looking for a way out. Barça want to take advantage of his situation to secure a strategic signing.
Nkunku is an explosive footballer, with the ability to break through and arrive from the second line. He can play on both wings or as an attacking midfielder, which gives him ideal versatility for Flick's system. In addition, both coincided in Germany and the coach has excellent memories of him.
The club's intention is for Nkunku to take on a leading role from day one. Flick doesn't want to repeat past mistakes and demands a clear plan to manage Yamal's minutes. Nkunku would be the ideal piece to give him rest without losing competitive level.
A signing that would give Yamal breathing room and dynamite the system
Nkunku could rack up many minutes in La Liga, Champions League, and Copa del Rey. His arrival would raise the squad's level and encourage competition in training. It would also allow the coach to change his scheme naturally depending on the opponent.
Chelsea are willing to negotiate if Barça propose an attractive formula. A loan with a purchase option or even a swap with a Barça player could be on the table. Everything will depend on the final figures and the player's willingness.
Nkunku scored 15 goals in 48 matches last season. These are interesting numbers considering the injuries and the Blues' inconsistency. Flick believes he can get him back to his best and turn him into a vital offensive wildcard.
Barça are working against the clock to finalize his arrival. Flick has been clear: he doesn't want surprises when the season starts. This time, everything points to Christopher Nkunku being the first bomb of the new attacking Barça.