While the result against Athletic Club was disappointing for FC Barcelona, they lost something much more crucial. Two of their most important players in Frenkie De Jong and Pedri were both injured in the game. As a consequence, Xavi’s Barcelona are now left extremely handicapped.
Their main priority has now also shifted towards the UEFA Champions League, as the team loses ground in La Liga. With the clash against Napoli set to be pivotal to their season now, Barça must first ensure the test of RCD Mallorca in the league as they still fight for second place as a realistic objective.
However, there are going to be rotations to ensure that key players can rest before the European clash. Others, on the other hand, may have to prove themselves against Mallorca to deserve a chance. One of those names is Fermin Lopez.
As per SPORT, Xavi’s decision to deploy Lopez against Athletic Club was quite telling. The Barcelona coach had the option of using Sergi Roberto as well, but ultimately he chose the 20-year-old to come into a crucial point of the game.
Now, against RCD Mallorca, Lopez will have to be tested. Xavi will likely return to a standard 4-3-3 against them, given the lack of midfield options, and will most probably start with three forwards up front. As for the midfielders, Ilkay Gundogan seems to be the only guarantee at the moment.
Lopez, on the other hand, is still a victim of barely any regularity of minutes this season. Instead, he will be allowed to showcase his levels against Mallorca, which in turn could showcase Xavi what he needs to know in order to make a more informed eleven against Napoli in the all-important game at the Montjuic Stadium.