Barcelona's summer has been defined by one transformative signing and one stubborn transfer problem. The arrival of Rodri from Manchester City stands as the club's statement move of the window. Hansi Flick described the Ballon d'Or winner as the best number six in the world, and the midfielder himself confirmed he chose Barcelona over Real Madrid, with Pep Guardiola playing a behind-the-scenes role in convincing him. It is the kind of signing that shifts expectations for a season before a ball is kicked in LaLiga.

Finding a striker to succeed Robert Lewandowski is proving far harder. Atletico Madrid rejected a €100m offer for Julian Alvarez, and Barcelona have now stepped back from that pursuit. Flick and sporting director Deco are searching for alternatives before the window closes, with Viktor Gyokeres among the names being considered after Ferran Torres left for PSG. The clock is ticking, and the centre-forward position remains unresolved.

Off the pitch, there was an awkward moment at the Joan Gamper Trophy presentation when Joao Cancelo could not be officially unveiled due to an incomplete registration on his permanent move from Al-Hilal. The Portuguese full-back stormed down the tunnel, a public sign of frustration over what should have been a straightforward administrative process. On a more positive note, Gavi rejected Manchester United's advances and is set for a new contract, while club legend Sergio Busquets has returned as assistant coach of Barca Atletic. Barcelona open their LaLiga campaign away at Elche on August 23.