Karim Adeyemi talks Barcelona move, Flick, Lamine, idols: ‘I’m joining the best club in the world’ | OneFootball

Karim Adeyemi has officially begun his Barcelona journey, and the German international has made it clear that he arrives with one objective: helping the club return to the top of European football.

Presented as Barcelona’s second signing of the summer after Anthony Gordon, Adeyemi met the media before linking up with Hansi Flick’s squad. 

Although he visited the Ciutat Esportiva last week and met his new teammates, he was unable to train until his contract was formally completed. 

That changes on Friday, when he is expected to take part in his first session as a Barcelona player.

The 24-year-old spoke about his decision to join the club, his conversation with Flick, his admiration for Lamine Yamal and the challenge of competing for a place in one of Europe’s strongest squads.

Adeyemi targets Champions League success

Asked about the expectations surrounding his arrival, Adeyemi left little doubt about how he views Barcelona.

“Expectations are high. I’m joining the best club in the world and I hope to show the manager and the fans that I’m a player for Barça.”

One of the biggest attractions behind the move was the opportunity to work under Flick and compete for the UEFA Champions League, the one major trophy that has so far eluded the current Barcelona project.

“It’s the main objective, but not the only one.

“It’s the main reason; he told me what the club needed and I’ve come here to prove it.”

The German also talked about his discussion with Flick before completing the transfer. He stated that the conversation focused more on commitment than tactics.

“We had a long conversation, but I didn’t ask about the position. He asked me if I was ready and I told him yes, that I’d give it my all. 

“For me, it’s a huge step. It’s a club unlike any other in the world.”

When asked where he prefers to play, Adeyemi made it clear he is happy to fit wherever the team needs him.

“It doesn’t matter to me; I’ve played in every position. I’m here to help the team.”

On Barcelona move and idols

Adeyemi also reflected on what it meant to receive Barcelona’s call after a difficult campaign.

“When I found out, I couldn’t believe it; my last season wasn’t the best. Flick has been a pillar of support; he told me to give it my all. 

“I was really impressed. For me, it’s a unique opportunity. My role models and idols at Barça are Messi and also Ronaldinho, although there are many others.”

The former Borussia Dortmund was asked why he chose Barcelona over other suitors, to which he said,

“It’s a historic club, and I remember watching them play incredible players when I was little. They have a special connection with Catalans; I’ve seen it and I really liked it.”

The winger expects one of his closest on-field partnerships to develop with Lamine Yamal, whose rapid rise has made him one of the team’s biggest stars.

“I think he’s an incredible footballer; I can connect with him. He scores goals and you’ve got to feed him the ball. I hope to connect well with him and the rest of the players.”

Adeyemi also revealed that he intends to learn Spanish quickly to help settle into the dressing room.

“I’ll try to speak Spanish; I’m good at languages and that way I can connect with him and the rest of the young players. We’ll click straight away as soon as we step onto the pitch.”

He added that the squad’s chemistry has already left a strong impression.

“It’s easy to connect with them; age doesn’t matter – whether they’re 18 or 19 – it’s a different story out there. It’s a fantastic squad.

“Flick has already told me it’s a family, that there’s a real sense of unity. It’s impressive that they’ve won a World Cup; I hope that will motivate us to achieve great things.”

Praise for Lamine Yamal

Despite arriving in a competitive attacking group, Adeyemi insisted he has never been concerned about fighting for minutes.

“I’ve been able to watch the players, but I haven’t been worried about the transfer. I haven’t been fretting about it. 

“I’ve watched training and I’m looking forward to joining them. This is football; it’s my job. I’ve enjoyed being here.”

Asked whether Lamine Yamal could one day win the Ballon d’Or, Adeyemi backed his new teammate while reminding everyone of the standards set by Lionel Messi.

“Lamine wouldn’t mind if I said it’s difficult to reach Messi’s level. Lamine plays with a lot of freedom. He just needs to keep going his own way – and why shouldn’t he win it?”

For now, however, the German’s focus is much simpler.

“What I’m most looking forward to is being at the first training session, getting to know the players and enjoying this moment. And playing at the stadium too,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo