Barcelona still need a No. 9, says Flick after 5-0 win over Elche

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick says the club's search for a natural striker remains unresolved after a 5-0 win over Elche in their La Liga opener, with winger Raphinha playing out of position as a makeshift No. 9. Raphinha scored twice in the victory, with Fermin Lopez also netting a brace and new signing Karim Adeyemi adding a goal. Flick acknowledged the attacking display was positive but stressed that a transfer summit with sporting director Deco is needed next week to address the squad's striker shortage before the summer window closes. The German coach praised the team's performance and clean sheet but noted concerns about ball control and turnovers. Barcelona now prepare for their first home match, while Deco faces a race against time to find a reliable centre-forward within the club's financial constraints.