Replacing Sergio Busquets was never going to be an easy task for Barcelona. Having started over 700 games for Barcelona, the Spanish midfielder left a huge void in the Catalan club after he joined Inter Miami in the summer.
Whilst there are very few players that can replicate the “Busi’s” impact, the Blaugranas brought in a decent replacement in the form of Oriol Romeu. However, the 31-year-old cannot be expected to start every single game for the club due to the taxing season ahead.
Frenkie De Jong and Ilkay Gündogan are two other players that can play as the pivot but the coach knows that their best positions are further up the field. This has caused the club to search the market for another player who can play in defensive midfield.
Whilst Martin Zubimendi and Joshua Kimmich are Xavi’s two preferred options but the financial situation of the club makes a move for them very difficult at this stage. The Catalan’s Director of Football Deco also reportedly likes Gabriel Moscardo from Corinthians and Arthur Vermeeren from Royal Antwerp.
However, according to a recent report from Mundo Deportivo, one of the candidates for this role is Real Betis’ Guido Rodríguez. The 29-year-old midfielder finishes his contract in 2024 and could be an option for Barcelona on a cut-price deal in January.
The Spaniard is a vital player for Real Betis, having started all 4 league games for them, and is very experienced in La Liga. Betis Sporting Director Ramón Planes has confirmed that Betis are looking to extend the player’s contract but also acknowledges that there are clubs who have knocked on his door already.
The report further indicates that the coaching staff will have a firsthand opportunity to see Guido in action tonight, as he will be playing against the Bluagranes. Xavi will get the chance to evaluate if the midfielder is ready to make the leap for the Catalan giants.
The Argentine midfielder will also look to make an impact against Barcelona as he knows that all eyes will be on him and making a good impression tonight could have an impact on his future.
