It is true that there is currently a positional crisis of sorts within FC Barcelona. Certain positions may be well-equipped, but others are equally vulnerable and lack specialists. One of the clear examples of the second case at Barcelona is that of the pivot position.
Having tried many different alternative options in that specific role, from Oriol Romeu to Ilkay Gundogan to even Andreas Christensen, it seems that Xavi is still not fully convinced. However, there may be an option that sees the coach sacrifice the quality of a certain player in another position.
The case of Pedri as a deep-lying playmaker is now being pondered upon by Diario AS. A player of great technical and creative virtues, Pedri has become the embodiment of a Barcelona midfielder in recent seasons.
His touch, eye for a pass, connectivity with his teammates, and almost effortless ball retention make him the right blend of all things to be a Barça midfielder.
However, AS believes that Xavi has now been forced to acknowledge a new dilemma. Pedri, one of his best interiors, could be useful for the team if he played deeper and helped initiate more of the plays that start from the back. They also believe that he has the right qualities to perhaps do this even better than Frenkie De Jong.
The argument presented states that while the Dutchman needs more touches to progress the ball himself, Pedri is far more composed when it comes to finding the right pass. His clarity and vision would allow him not to have to make valiant runs forward, and his defensive output makes him a viable option to recover balls as well.
In fact, AS has highlighted the exact evolution of Italian icon Andrea Pirlo as a great parallel. The former Juventus player has made many big changes throughout his career, and has gone from playing as a regista to a direct defensive midfielder. His changes allowed his teams to adapt and play at their best level as a consequence.
Now, with Pedri, that process could possibly be reimagined. However, for Xavi at least, the young Spaniard is too important to lose in any position. Thus, AS also believes that his involvement as any kind of midfielder will likely depend a lot on what exactly Barcelona needs in any given game or situation.
