Two penalties won, six dribbles, one assist: Karim Adeyemi shines for Barcelona | OneFootball

Karim Adeyemi may not have found the net in Barcelona’s 7-2 demolition of Racing Santander, but the summer signing still delivered one of the most eye-catching performances of the night.

The German forward was at the heart of Barça’s attacking display from the opening whistle, constantly giving Racing Club problems with his pace and direct running. 

As such, Adeyemi finished the night with eight shots, six successful dribbles, four chances created, five ball recoveries, two penalties won and an assist.

Adeyemi turns pace into a constant threat

Operating from the left and combining with Joao Cancelo, he repeatedly attacked the space behind Racing’s defence and forced the visitors to retreat.

His movement was exactly what Flick demands from him. Rather than waiting for possession, Adeyemi looked to receive the ball on the move, take defenders on and accelerate into dangerous areas.

He came close to scoring when Pedri played him through. Adeyemi controlled the pass and attempted to lift the ball over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort drift narrowly wide.

The goal escaped him, but his overall influence did not.

He won two penalties through his direct running, with Raphinha converting the second to complete his hat-trick.

Barcelona’s new signing keeps producing moments

Adeyemi saved another contribution for the closing stages. With the game approaching its conclusion, he won possession in the 89th minute, surged forward and carried the ball into the box before unselfishly setting up Lamine Yamal for Barcelona’s seventh goal.

Even then, he was not finished. In stoppage time, Adeyemi came close with an acrobatic attempt that drew applause from the Spotify Camp Nou crowd.

Ultimately, Adeyemi recorded 74 touches, completed 85.7% of his 42 passes, recovered possession five times and drew four fouls.

For what it is worth, this was not a cameo built around speed. Adeyemi was an active part of Barcelona’s possession and attack throughout the evening.

Hence, it is safe to understand that Flick clearly sees something in him, and against Racing, Adeyemi offered a glimpse of why.