Football Presse

Dani Olmo addresses Barcelona's attempt for Alvarez

·By Carlos Volcano
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Dani Olmo addresses Barcelona's attempt for Alvarez

Barcelona/X.com

Dani Olmo addressed Barcelona's transfer business and his own role as a central striker option after being honoured in his hometown of Terrassa on Wednesday.

The Spain international was recognised by the Terrassa city council for his role in the country's World Cup triumph in the United States, using the occasion to reflect on both the tournament and the club's ongoing season.

"Today is a day of celebration," Olmo said. "I wanted to come and celebrate the great World Cup we won for the whole country. This continues.

"Now there are new objectives: to defend the titles we won and go for the Champions League, which we're really looking forward to."

Asked about his role as an option through the middle for Barcelona, Olmo said head coach Hansi Flick understood his versatility well.

"The manager knows me perfectly and knows where I can play," he said. "The squad has been strengthened in a spectacular way. There are players perfectly capable of playing as a nine, and I'm one of them too."

He also addressed the club's decision not to hold a planned tribute at Camp Nou for the World Cup winners.

"The club decided it wasn't the best moment," Olmo said. "As players, we respect that. We know the club values us and we understood it wasn't the right time."

On Julián Álvarez, whose proposed move to Barcelona collapsed during the window, Olmo was measured in his response.

"He's a great player, one of the best in the world," Olmo said. "That's football. Some things happen and others don't. The club has done a spectacular job in the market."

Pressed further on Atletico Madrid's role in blocking the deal, he added: "I don't understand the situation with Atlético. We all have our dreams. Julián was clear and fought for his dreams, but there are external situations you can't control. Life goes on and this doesn't stop us. A very good year awaits us, for sure."

Turning to Real Madrid, Olmo struck a competitive but respectful tone ahead of the new season.

"It's always been this way," he said. "Madrid have strengthened themselves very well, just like us. The objective for both of us is to win everything. We've had two years of major domestic success and now we want success in Europe too."

Barcelona begin their Champions League campaign in the coming weeks, with Olmo expected to feature prominently in Flick's attacking options regardless of the position he ultimately occupies.