Barcelona head into the new LaLiga season with genuine cause for optimism, anchored by the arrival of Rodri from Manchester City. The Ballon d'Or winner chose the Spotify Camp Nou over Real Madrid, with manager Hansi Flick describing him as the best number six in the world. Rodri himself was clear about his preference, stating Barcelona was always his priority despite a competing offer from across the city. The signing represents a statement of intent from a club that also retained Gavi, who rejected advances from Manchester United and is now in line for a fresh contract.

Yet the summer has not been without friction. Joao Cancelo was left visibly frustrated after an administrative problem blocked his official presentation ahead of the Joan Gamper Trophy, casting a shadow over what should have been a straightforward unveiling. Academy graduate Tommy Marques has also departed, joining Braga in a €12 million deal after finding no pathway to first-team football under Flick.

The striker search remains the club's most pressing unresolved business. Barcelona's €100 million bid for Julian Alvarez was rejected by Atletico Madrid, and the Argentine has since shifted his focus toward Arsenal. A move for Chelsea's Joao Pedro also fell through after the Brazilian signed an eight-year extension at Stamford Bridge. Folarin Balogun of Monaco is now among the names being considered, with the transfer window closing fast.

Barcelona sit 14th in LaLiga with no points played, and travel to Elche on August 23 for their opening fixture.