Flick Prepares Barcelona’s False Nine Plan After Lewandowski Exit

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick began planning ahead from the very start of pre-season training, experimenting with a “false nine” tactical system while also exploring alternatives in the transfer market to deal with potential risks ahead of the new season.

With Robert Lewandowski having left the club and Ferran Torres’ future still uncertain — an issue Flick also addressed during his pre-season review at St George’s Park — the situation has forced the German coach to search for solutions at the striker position from the first day of training camp.

Faced with this challenge, which has caused considerable concern within Barcelona’s sporting department, the club actually has several internal options. Flick is preparing in advance and making plans for every possible scenario.

In fact, during Flick’s first two seasons in charge, Barcelona had already experimented with a false nine approach that did not rely on Lewandowski or Ferran Torres. Flick used Dani Olmo in that role on several occasions. As a product of Barcelona’s academy, Olmo originally played as a striker before gradually transitioning into an attacking midfielder and winger. Therefore, he is familiar with the No.9 position and has always maintained a strong goalscoring record.

Another potential option is Fermín López. The unique Barcelona academy midfielder has a strong desire to shoot, with a direct playing style, excellent late runs into the box, and sharp instincts in front of goal. These qualities suggest he could potentially adapt to a striker role. However, so far, Flick has not tested him in competitive matches as a centre-forward.

Raphinha is another possibility. The coaching staff believes that his outstanding work rate and movement could allow him to operate as a striker. In matches, he often drifts into central areas, although he has not been used as a fixed penalty-box presence. This remains another option available to Flick.

As for Lamine Yamal, although he has occasionally played as a striker, Flick made it clear during pre-season that the youngster is still viewed primarily as a right winger (No.7 role). The coach prefers a “false nine” who can provide stronger pressing intensity and defensive work.

On the transfer market, sporting director Deco is actively searching for a suitable replacement to fill the gap left by Lewandowski’s departure and the possibility of Ferran leaving. One of the main targets is Julián Álvarez.

In reality, Ferran himself is not a traditional centre-forward either. Flick wants his ideal “false nine” to have qualities similar to Ferran: not only the ability to score goals but also intense pressing, intelligent movement, and the ability to exploit spaces.

During pre-season, Flick also gave opportunities to Ebrima Tunkara and Toni Fernández, allowing them to play in the striker role and giving the coaching staff a chance to evaluate their potential.