Ferran Torres had a mixed outing when Barcelona took on Elche last night. He scored the team's second goal against Eder Sarabia's men, but struggled to convert at least four other chances during his time on the field. On a larger level, however, Torres has been good for Barcelona this campaign and has given Hansi Flick enough reason to see him as a starting No. 9.
Betis' lead did not last long though, as Torres levelled proceedings just five minutes later, firing home off Jules Kounde's near-post centre before completing a quickfire brace soon after, steering a low shot through Alvaro Valles' legs. Roony Bardghji made it three and scored his first goal for the club in spectacular fashion just past the half-hour mark, unleashing a brilliant first-time weak-foot strike into the top corner.
I met Ferran when he was 16. He can play in any position: right wing, left wing, striker... His performance rate is spectacular. He has extraordinary stats, and wherever he plays, he always performs well. We're lucky to have him, and we'll see tomorrow what position he plays,
Tottenham's interest is neither new nor superficial. The London side has been tracking Ferran closely for several weeks, convinced that the Spaniard's strong Premier League background makes him an ideal reinforcement. At 25, Ferran is entering what many consider his prime years, and his current level at Barcelona reflects exactly that. He has become one of the most reliable forwards in Hansi Flick's squad, a player who contributes with movement, intensity, clever positioning, and the ability to appear in dangerous areas at the right moment.
The forward missed Friday's final training session, confirming that he will not feature in the match immediately after the international break. It must be noted that Ferran had returned early from the Spanish national team camp due to an "overload in the hamstring muscles of the left leg, without associated injury." Although the club initially assured that he "is not out and will follow specific treatment," the discomfort has persisted.
The FC Barcelona forward, after completing the match against Georgia in Elche, reported muscular discomfort, which was assessed by the medical services of the RFEF, including complementary tests, diagnosing a muscular overload without any associated anatomical injury. Given the proximity of the match against Bulgaria, and adhering to the policy of avoiding risk and putting the player's health first, he has been withdrawn from the squad. The medical services of FC Barcelona have been informed of all the details.
