Barça started the title defense with a clear home victory against Costa Adeje Tenerife. The revelation team of last season, finishing in a surprising fourth position, was no match for the blaugrana who, despite all the absences, dominated without problems. Without Aitana Bonmatí, Esmee Brugts, Kika Nazareth, Clara Serrajordi, and the long-term injured Laia Aleixandri, Pere Romeu faced the league debut, surprising with the inclusion of the 17-year-old Lúa Arufe in the starting eleven. Although the standout was Claudia Pina, with a goal and an assist, shining in the debut of the culé team.

Playing and winning as a team. More than ever. For days, Hansi Flick has seen that the number nine he requested – Julián Álvarez – was unlikely to arrive. And for days he has been thinking, reflecting, and shaping how his Barça can aim for everything without the scorer he wanted upfront. He asked for Adeyemi and Gordon, pure electric versatility on the wings. And he thought of Raphinha as captain. The coach prefers to invest. To think about the future. And he has decided that, with what he has, he can aspire to everything. The German is not wrong. He proved it against Athletic Club. Generating more than ever on Unai Simon’s great night, impeccable under the posts. They were finally surpassed by Raphinha and Fermín on Lamine Yamal’s great night, who only missed the goal. Rodri debuted and Pedri shone as he always does at Barça. And, in defense, Xavi Espart shone again. Barça is a machine as a team. They have scored seven goals at the start of this league. And without a number nine.