Barcelona’s search for a solution at centre-forward has taken an interesting turn, with Hansi Flick reportedly testing 16-year-old Ebrima Tounkara in the false nine role during pre-season.
According to Sport (h/t The world of Bayern Munich), the Barcelona manager is exploring the youngster’s potential in a more advanced position despite Tounkara arriving from the academy primarily as a central midfielder.
The teenager has also played as a winger and attacking midfielder, but Flick now looks set to see if his skill set can allow him to operate as Barcelona’s most advanced player.
This experience comes at an important time for the team, as Barcelona currently does not have a recognized striker after the departure of Robert Lewandowski and the departure of Robert Lewandowski. Ferran Torres this summer.
While the club Continue following Julian AlvarezAtletico Madrid’s firm stance has left Flick working with the options currently available to him.
This situation could give Tounkara an unexpected opportunity to show another side of his game.
Barcelona’s striker shortage opens the door for Tounkara
Flick is currently facing a unique problem in his Barcelona team.
With Lewandowski’s departure to MLS and Ferran Torres joining Paris Saint-Germain, the German coach is left without a natural No. 9.
Barcelona’s priority remains to sign Julian Alvarez, but the process It remains difficult because of Atletico Madrid’s refusalTo ease their position.
In order for the situation to change, Flick must find solutions from within his team.
Barcelona has many versatile attacking players capable of playing in different roles, including midfield. But Tounkara’s profile is said to have caught Flick’s attention as another potential option.
The 16-year-old has the physicality to compete against defenders, along with speed and the ability to protect the ball.
The teenager was initially included in the pre-season group to allow Flick to be assessed more closely rather than he was expected to compete immediately for regular first-team minutes.
but, His performance has given the Barcelona manager More to think about.
Tunkara has already made an impression
It is worth noting that Tounkara took advantage of his opportunity to prepare for the new season well, as he scored against Europe, started against Birmingham and also participated in the match against Udinese.
These appearances have allowed him to display some of the qualities that have made him one of the most exciting players in the La Masia system.
Interestingly, the false nine role would represent another position change for the teenager, who is most comfortable as a midfielder, but spent most of last season playing on the right wing.
Flick has already used his versatility during pre-season, and is now said to be considering whether he can offer something in midfield as well.
