Barcelona vs Cadiz: Injury crisis – a new opportunity?

Barca vs Cadiz

Following a close contest against Manchester United, Barcelona stay at home hosting Cádiz ahead of a nervy second leg at Old Trafford. The 2-2 draw against the Mancunians brought forth plenty of problems to be addressed, but arguably the biggest setback is the absence of Pedri González and Pablo Gavi.

While the latter received his 3rd yellow card in the 2022/23 European series, earning him a one-game suspension from the crucial second leg against United, the former suffered a thigh injury, which will keep him on the sidelines for about 3-4 weeks. Their absence from the second leg is a sensible loss for Barcelona, despite their tender age, the young duo is already an integral part of the Blaugrana system.

But, when one door closes, another opens. With their absence confirmed for Thursday’s decisive clash, the Cádiz game can be a good preparation for their potential replacements to pick up the rhythm and get into match sharpness. With Xavi reportedly ready to field a heavily rotated lineup, the likes of Sergi Roberto, Pablo Torre, and even Ansu Fati and Ferrán Torres happily welcome this opportunity.

Let’s just dissect this quartet tactically a bit. Roberto and Torre are naturally midfielders, which would mean that Xavi have enough numbers to field a 4-man midfield, especially knowing that Busquets is already back in the squad and is expected to have some minutes in the game too. However, it’s highly unlikely that we get to see such an improvised midfield setup within the confines of the WM formation that we have been using lately.

Instead, it can be expected that Xavi will revert to the 4-3-3, with Fati and Torres ready to start on the wings. Indeed, Gavi’s suspension is valid only in the Europa League, so he could play either in the midfield or the false winger role, but it could be better to field Thursday’s starters so that they can shake together, while the rotation will indubitably play a crucial part in today’s lineup, giving rest to stars like Raphinha.

The defense could see further rotations as Christensen was already rested against United for this game as Xavi admitted before the match – though, it raised questions about the correctness of this decision. In plus, Eric García’s work rate was publicly praised by Xavi in his pre-match press conference, which might mean that the Spaniard will start tonight, especially knowing that Araújo claimed a suspension for the league fixture.

All in all, these unfortunate losses open new possibilities and variations for Xavi, and if the replacements manage to make the most of this opportunity and perform well, it might just even be a blessing in disguise for Barcelona. In a few hours, we will find out. Visca Barça.

Ben Kantovich
Ben Kantovichhttps://www.instagram.com/garnetandblue/
Meet Ben Kantovich, a passionate writer and devoted lover of the beautiful game. Through his words, he brings the excitement and beauty of football to life, sharing unique perspectives with readers worldwide.

The Latest

Barcelona prodigy continues to grow with the help of special plans

For FC Barcelona, the development of their young stars is of pivotal importance. The younglings of the club have become their true trump card,...

The dangers Barcelona and Spain are putting their prodigy in

In the great magic created by the grand talents of Barcelona, there exists a sense of danger always. Helping young pearls shine and hone...

Four coaches Barcelona still consider for next season – report

As the days go by, FC Barcelona inch ever closer to making a tough decision for their future. Uncertainty lies across the board, both...

Four coaches Barcelona have discarded as future options – report

A great dilemma for Barcelona next season will be the appointment of a new first-team head coach. Xavi Hernandez has already announced his departure,...

Barcelona mainstay committed to the club amidst Bayern interest

Despite being one of the captains and one of the most important players at FC Barcelona, Ronald Araujo’s future at the Catalan club is...

‘He sacrificed himself’… Poland coach full of praise for Barcelona ace

Cardiff Stadium was abuzz with anticipation and excitement on the 26th of March 2024 as Wales played host to Robert Lewandowski's Poland, with the...

Barcelona calm about teenage sensation’s continuity at the club

The emergence of Lamine Yamal has been clearly the most notable aspect of the current season for FC Barcelona. The youngster made his first...

Barcelona taking steps to keep Xavi associated with the club

As Xavi Hernandez has already announced his decision to leave FC Barcelona at the end of the season, the position of the head coach...

Two crucial La Liga matchdays await Barcelona and Real Madrid ahead of El Clasico

8 points clear of FC Barcelona in second place, Real Madrid are on course to win their record-extending 36th La Liga title come the...