Adeyemi’s €22m move: not scared of Yamal’s challenge at Barca

Barcelona completed the €22 million transfer of Germany international Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund on 23 July, adding a further €7 million in performance‑related bonuses and a five‑year contract that runs until June 2031. The 24‑year‑old striker will make his unofficial debut in Friday’s pre‑season friendly against Birmingham City.

Adeyemi told Mundo Deportivo he is not afraid of competing for a place with Lamine Yamal. “I’m not afraid of competing for a place with Lamine Yamal or anyone else; if I’m at my best, I’ll play,” he said, underscoring his confidence ahead of the new season.

The forward is set to feature in the Friday’s match versus Birmingham City, marking his first appearance in a Barcelona shirt. The pre‑season fixture offers a first glimpse of how he will fit alongside the club’s existing attacking options.

He revealed that a simple phone call from Barcelona coach Julian Flick sealed his decision. “Convince is the wrong word. He simply called me and asked if I wanted to go. I told him of course, because it’s the biggest club in the world and these opportunities only come once,” Adeyemi explained.

Adeyemi added that Flick knows him well from the German national team and that their close relationship influenced his move. “I hope Flick sees things in me that I can contribute to the team. He knows me very well from the national team and we’re very close,” he said.

Highlighting his playing style, Adeyemi said, “I have speed, of course, but I also have other things to contribute to the game. I’m good in one‑on‑one situations, I can play on the wing or as a centre forward. I think I’m versatile and that’s what makes me different.”

Looking ahead, the striker said his ultimate ambition is to win the Champions League. “Of course, my dream is to win the Champions League. I almost did, but unfortunately we lost, and it’s my dream. That’s what I work for every day,” he affirmed.

The transfer agreement also includes a sell‑on clause negotiated by Borussia Dortmund, ensuring the German club will benefit from any future sale.

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