The final stretch of the season arrives for FC Barcelona, and it is a rather unpleasant one. Normally, the club is challenging for various titles by this time of any given campaign. This time around, however, winning titles is closer to impossible than possible for Barcelona.
However, one thing that is already confirmed ahead of time is Xavi Hernandez’s continuity. Previously expected to leave the club in the summer, it is now confirmed that the Barcelona head coach will retain his position for next season as well.
Yet, that begs the question regarding what exactly Xavi can salvage out of this season. To this, SPORT has provided a handful of possible answers. While winning titles of any kind may be out of the question, Barcelona still have some objectives to tend to before the season is officially over.
Guaranteeing the Spanish Super Cup and the Champions League:
While the top spot of La Liga may be nearly impossible to win back, FC Barcelona must retain the second position no matter what. Michel’s Girona is only two points away, so Xavi’s Barcelona must stay on their toes, especially with a game against their Catalan opponents still left to be played.
By ensuring second place, Barcelona will guarantee themselves both a Champions League and a Spanish Super Cup spot. The latter essentially guarantees an additional €6 million, which would be a welcome bonus to a Barcelona side looking to generate additional revenue from where it is possible.
Dependence on the youth:
Xavi’s greatest contribution this season, arguably, has been his dependence on youngsters. The likes of Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi have truly exploded, but others who do not feature as regularly may end up getting Xavi’s blessing to do so in the final few encounters of the official season.
Vitor Roque, Marc Guiu, Hector Fort, and others have been waiting for their respective opportunities. By letting them come into their own and being able to monitor them across different kinds of games should allow Barcelona to make better and more well-informed decisions regarding them.
Separating the untouchables:
As the summer transfer window fast approaches, Barcelona must be ruthless in their policies. Thus, all players must step up and showcase their best level to truly be deemed as players not worth letting go of. However, for others, these final few matchdays could spell game over at Barcelona.