Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo returned to his hometown of Terrassa to receive local tributes after winning the World Cup with Spain. Speaking about Júlian Álvarez, who was unable to join Barcelona this summer, Olmo stated that he did not understand why Atlético Madrid did not allow the player to pursue his dream of joining the club.

Olmo said: "Julián is a very good player, a very good No. 9, undoubtedly one of the best forwards in the world. But that's how football is, some things happen, some things don't, and life goes on."

Regarding Atlético Madrid's eventual decision not to let Álvarez leave, Olmo was more direct: "I really don't understand. I think Julián also made it very clear that he obviously fought for his dream. But in the end, there are external factors that individuals cannot control. This is the case here, and there is no need to say more."

Although Álvarez ultimately did not join Flick's team, Olmo still believes that Barcelona has built a squad this summer capable of competing for all titles. "Life goes on, and this will not stop us. For us, this will definitely be a very good season. The competition will be very intense because other clubs have also strengthened, but our squad is fully capable of competing at 100%."

Olmo returned to Terrassa to celebrate winning the World Cup with Spain this summer. He said: "This is a day worth celebrating. I've wanted to come back for a long time and always hoped to arrange the timing with the city council. I am very much looking forward to celebrating the World Cup we won with everyone."

However, Olmo also stressed that the World Cup victory is in the past and they need to move forward. "We have achieved something very great, but everything must continue. Now we have new goals."

One of the most important goals is to help Barcelona win the Champions League. Olmo said: "We must continue to win, defend the Copa del Rey and Super Cup titles, and of course, challenge for the Champions League. Our squad is fully capable of doing this."

With the arrival of Gabriel Jesus, Flick has more options in attack. Olmo said he is willing to accept any role assigned by the coach, including playing as a false nine or even as a direct striker.

He said: "The coach knows me very well and also knows what positions I can play. The team has strengthened very well this summer, and the club has done an excellent job."

Olmo also mentioned Raphinha, Jesus, and himself, believing that they can all play in central attacking roles. "These players are all capable enough to play that position. No matter where the coach asks me to play, I will be ready and give 100% when it's my turn."

Regarding Barcelona's original plan to hold a tribute ceremony for eight World Cup winners at Camp Nou, the decision was eventually canceled following incidents in Elche.

He said: "Ultimately, the club believed it was not the most appropriate time. As players, we respect this decision. We know that the club 100% acknowledges our World Cup victory. Considering everything that happened later, we also felt that it was not the right occasion at that time. This is understandable, and we have no issue with it."

Therefore, Olmo also appreciated receiving this tribute in his hometown: "Now I can enjoy this moment personally, celebrating with my family and friends in Terrassa. I have been looking forward to this day for a long time."

Looking ahead to the new season, Olmo believes Real Madrid will still be a major competitor for Barcelona in the race for all titles. "Real Madrid has strengthened very well, bringing in many excellent players, and so have we. Ultimately, both teams aim to win everything."

After two consecutive seasons of domestic success, Barcelona now hopes to break through in European competitions. Olmo said: "We will fight for our goals as we have in the past. In the past two years, we have achieved considerable success in domestic competitions, and now we hope to do the same in Europe."

He concluded: "The most difficult thing is often not doing it once, but maintaining it and doing it again. That is our goal."

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