Yesterday’s encounter against Atletico Madrid was nothing short of a roller coaster ride for all the Blaugrana faithful. A game that included a wonderfully worked goal, scrappy moments, and red cards – for both the teams yet again, albeit this time it was the Young promising Spaniard, Ferran Torres.
As the game neared its final whistle, a series of events found Barcelona again in the vicinity of the home team’s box. Ferran who was operating centrally was being marked by Savic. When Ferran entered the box, a physical tussle followed, and the referee was quick in his decision of sending them both off.
However, that’s not all as the latest reports suggest that the suspension could well be for 2 to 3 matches for Ferran, which will further deplete Xavi’s options in the frontline, given the fact that Robert Lewandowski also has to serve a pending 2 match suspension.
However, this wasn’t the only time Savic was involved in a physical tussle. Last year too, the veteran Atletico center-half was found guilty in a similar situation with Jack Grealish in the UEFA Champions League encounter, for which he was sent off as well.
This development is quite concerning for La Blaugrana and the coach, who now have even fewer options to choose from. Raphinha, Ansu Fati, Dembele, and Memphis Depay are the remaining options to make a combination from.
Given the 3-point advantage Barcelona have in La Liga after yesterday’s narrow win, it becomes even more important to not drop any points so as to put pressure on the current second-placed team. This situation currently will put more pressure on the forwards to excel, as well as Xavi who has to make impeccable choices so as to not give off the lead they maintain.
A good display in the subsequent matches will strengthen the spirits of the fans as well as players, who will put a stronger claim on the title if they perform exceptionally in the limited choices they have for the time being.
