It is evident that an urgent shakeup is needed at FC Barcelona during these troubling times. The Catalans have seemingly lost their way and continue to struggle in games where that should not be the case. However, much of the criticism and spotlight is now on Xavi Hernandez.
As such, the Spanish coach needs to make the right adjustments before it’s too late. FC Barcelona next face off against FC Porto at the Montjuic Stadium. The UEFA Champions League clash could ultimately decide the final standings of Group H and Barcelona will need to ensure that the top spot is theirs.
As such, SPORT has highlighted six crucial measures that Barcelona need to implement urgently. The future of La Blaugrana’s season now rests in Xavi’s hands, and these crucial aspects of Barcelona’s game need to be addressed as soon as possible.
Defending the Barcelona goal:
Last season, much of the success that Barcelona enjoyed came from their defensive solidity. This season, they have been far from their best in that particular department. Thus far, Ter Stegen has six clean sheets from 13 appearances, and Xavi needs to ensure his defense helps out in this regard much more extensively.
Taking back control:
Conceding first is always a bad thing, and Barcelona are fully aware of this. On many occasions this season, Barça have had to make a comeback against opponents to save points. While some dramatic wins have come as a result, it is also frustrating and unlike Barça to be in that position. This needs to change soon.
Be fearless, even away from home:
Despite their decent record away from the Montjuic Stadium, Barcelona seem to lose their personality. The Catalan giants are one of the most successful clubs in the world historically. Their performance needs to show that, regardless of where they play. A new sense of pride and hunger is something that feels missing at times, particularly in away games.
Rekindle their midfield:
The loss of Gavi comes as a huge blow for the Catalans. However, that is where the quality of their depth comes into play. Pedri, Frenkie De Jong, Ilkay Gundogan, and Fermin Lopez are all excellent players who need to help Barcelona reassert themselves. Despite the plaudits that go to the forwards, it is ultimately the midfielders who help Barcelona play as Barça should.
Feeding their number ‘9’:
Robert Lewandowski is statistically falling behind his previous Pichichi-winning season. By this point, he already had 13 goals last season while he only has 7 in the current campaign.
While blame can certainly go towards him as well, there is still a lack of service that reaches him. At many points, he has shown that he can convert from a less frequent number of chances. However, the sooner this number is amplified, the sooner he can return to regularly scoring.
Every player needs to contribute:
Goals are what win football matches at the end of the day. While it is technically the job of the striker to score goals, it is also the responsibility of others to chime in.
The likes of Joao Felix, Ferran Torres, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal also need to add in their tallies. With several of them facing frustrating goal droughts, it is no wonder that Barça seem to lack goals.