Mundo Deportivo: Barcelona failed to sign Alvarez, but Flick accepts Deco's challenge

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona failed to sign Julian Alvarez this summer, but Flick has accepted Deco's adjustment plan and started with Raphinha as a false nine.

With the summer window closed, Barcelona could not sign Julian Alvarez. Atletico Madrid did not want to sell their star to a direct rival, but the story may not be over.

Signing Julian would have been good news for Barcelona. Given the team's current pace, it is easy to imagine his level alongside these players, but there is no need for panic.

Flick is a German coach accustomed to a traditional striker. With Lewandowski and Ferran Torres he feels comfortable, while he had not been fully convinced by the false nine role.

Guided by Deco, Flick accepted the challenge. Raphinha playing as a false nine helped Barcelona score 12 goals in three matches, with five from him, making the plan successful.

The connection between Raphinha and Flick is special. Yamal also creates danger when moving centrally, with his goal against Rayo Vallecano carrying a Messi-like quality.

Raphinha will not stay at his peak forever, and Yamal will eventually become central. For now, the Raphinha plan is working and time will decide its duration.

Flick wants the Camp Nou to keep its intensity. The arrivals of players such as Gordon and Adeyemi allowed Raphinha to move into the false nine role and showed clear planning.

In attack, the late signing of Jesus was considered a market opportunity. A €10 million deal fit Barcelona's approach.

Barcelona's high-speed style requires more work from the midfield. The team must use pressing and possession to manage energy.

La Masia's philosophy emphasizes forward defending and possession football. Pedri is the core, Bernal is developing, and Rodri can also raise the team's level.

Frenkie de Jong's role remains uncertain. His performances, recent injuries and new arrivals have created questions about his status.

Gavi can also operate in midfield and understands the team's ideas. He may appear as an attacking midfielder alongside Fermin and Olmo.

Barcelona kept its defensive structure. Cubarsi has shown leadership, while his defensive partner is still to be decided.

At full-back, Eric Garcia, Kounde and Balde face competition, while young player Espart has emerged as a surprise.

Without Araujo, Barcelona might have needed a top centre-back, but finding players suited to this risky style is difficult.

Barcelona signed Livakovic to support Joan Garcia, while Szczesny is expected to provide experience and help maintain dressing-room order.

Barcelona must be close to perfect to compete for a La Liga title that may require an extremely high points total, while keeping a clear identity.

The club has built a deep squad, and now the team must prove its quality through performances.

La Masia continues producing talent, but the first team cannot contain everyone. Sales and loans are also part of the club's development strategy.