Double pivot – A working solution for Xavi’s team

Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images

Since coming back from the World Cup break, we got to see Barcelona line up in a rather new format quite often, concretely in a kind of 3-2-2-3, also commonly known as the WM system. This setup, among others, benefits the midfield well, having 4 men to occupy the central areas, 2 interiors, who support the attacks greatly, and a double pivot behind.

Double pivot – a dilemma that numerously ran through one’s mind while desperately searching for a solution for Barcelona’s aging defensive midfielder problematic. Sergio Busquets, although being one of the best holding midfielders in football history in his prime, has obviously stepped out of this magnificent era, and his career slowly edging to its inevitable end.

Accordingly, Xavi tried multiple things, such as deploying Frenkie de Jong, Franck Kessié, or Nico González in the number 6 position and even the double pivot sometimes, but it seemed largely unfamiliar with the team’s style. Nothing seemed to entirely satisfy until this setup came into effect.

Yesterday against Real Betis, Sergio Busquets really rewinded the wheel of time, producing a masterful game as he did so often back in the days. Defensively, he was on the top, winning an outstanding majority of his duels (15/18) to retrieve the ball, while his sharp passing, especially his long balls were excellent, creating chances for his peers.

The reason why this setup blossomed probably lies at the complementary profiles of the two. Busquets, while doing his job perfectly in his position, freed up Frenkie to unleash his best self, having a bigger impact on the game higher up the pitch.

And Frenkie did brilliantly, gluing the play together, connecting the defense with the attacking section. In turn, de Jong also tracked back to relieve Busquets in defensive duties, complementing each other’s skillset – and covering each other’s deficiencies perfectly.

The Latest

Mallorca coach reveals game plan to counter Xavi’s Barcelona

FC Barcelona are well prepared for their upcoming clash in La Liga EA Sports against a rigid opposition in RCD Mallorca. While statistically, their...

Xavi still optimistic about Brazilian gem coming to Barcelona in January – report

For top European clubs like FC Barcelona, recruiting the best players is always a great objective no matter the situation. For Barca, certain positions...

26-year-old Brazilian winger set to start for Barcelona against Mallorca – report

FC Barcelona return to league action soon enough in a clash against RCD Mallorca away from home. Entering their seventh game of La Liga...

Xavi talks Frenkie, Pedri, Raphinha, Kounde, Roque ahead of Barcelona vs Mallorca

FC Barcelona are preparing for their seventh match in the 2023-24 La Liga campaign as they face Mallorca on a midweek match tomorrow. Xavi's...

Official: Barcelona announce squad for the game against RCD Mallorca

Following their ‘Remontada’ over Celta Vigo, FC Barcelona already return to action in La Liga EA Sports. Set to face off against Javier Aguirre’s...

Xavi’s impressive record with the club surpassed only by two Barcelona managers

There were high hopes pinned on Xavi Hernandez as he became the head coach for FC Barcelona at the end of 2021. While everything...

Portuguese star repaying Xavi’s faith with his best career start at Barcelona

The latest FC Barcelona right-back, Joao Cancelo, has had a very varied career. He arrived at Barcelona aged 29 years and has already played...

Promising start to ex-defender’s season can benefit Barcelona financially – report

Oscar Mingueza is one of the several players who made the jump from La Masia to the FC Barcelona first team, but were unable...

Barcelona summer arrival dispels concerns about discipline with uplifting attitude

Joao Cancelo joined FC Barcelona on loan from Manchester City this summer transfer window. He was the main candidate identified by Xavi to strengthen...