Barcelona are building early momentum in LaLiga after a commanding 5-0 win at Elche on Sunday, a result that underlines the attacking quality Hansi Flick has assembled heading into the new season. The scoreline, achieved away from home on matchday two, sends a clear signal to the rest of the division and puts the club in fourth place with three points from one game played.

The biggest story surrounding the club this summer has been the arrival of Rodri from Manchester City. Flick described the Ballon d'Or winner as the best number six in the world, and the Spanish international's decision to choose Barcelona over Real Madrid has already drawn a pointed response from Thibaut Courtois. His presence gives Flick a genuine midfield anchor, addressing one of the squad's most pressing structural needs.

Off the pitch, the transfer window continues to generate turbulence. Alejandro Balde, who started at Elche, has reportedly decided to leave the club with Manchester United in talks to sign him, which would force Flick into the market for a left-back before the window closes. Barcelona are also monitoring Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio, whose coach admitted he cannot guarantee the player will stay. Academy graduate Tommy Marques has already departed for Braga in a €12 million deal, while the club stepped back from a pursuit of Julian Alvarez after Atletico Madrid rejected a €100 million offer. Athletic Bilbao visit Spotify Camp Nou on Thursday in the next LaLiga fixture.