After a positive start to the season, many of the Barcelona stars under Xavi have begun to underperform. Unable to achieve and replicate their best levels, a problematic run of form becomes even more delicate.
These mild performances have even led to the downfall of the entire team in terms of their playing fluidity and rhythm as the season has progressed.
The dynamic performances against the likes of Real Betis and Royal Antwerp are no longer replicated. Moreover, they seem unable to be replicated entirely. The team lacks a certain edge to it, and a recent report believes it directly links to three individuals who have not been performing at their best.
According to a recent report by Mundo Deportivo, three Barcelona players are currently facing an ‘unexpected downturn’. The players in question are Oriol Romeu, Alejandro Balde, and Ferran Torres. Interestingly, all three players belong to a different positional group on the field.
Midfield: Oriol Romeu
In the midfield, Oriol Romeu was brought in to act as the team’s primary pivot this season. After a great set of displays initially, the 32-year-old has visibly declined. His passing seems uninspired, awareness feels extremely slow and he no longer has the legs to cover ground at a good pace.
In three of the last four games for Barcelona, he has started from the bench. In particular, his appearance against Real Madrid did the Catalans no favors either. Brought in to help deconstruct Madrid’s building rhythm, he instead ended up being a weak link for Barcelona.
Defense: Alejandro Balde
Then comes the issue of Alejandro Balde. While the young left-back is not necessarily being shunned for any defensive lapses, as he remains consistent in those duties, he is being highlighted for his lack of offensive contributions to the team.
This season, he has managed to provide only one assist. Against Madrid, the reason seemed to be quite clear. Unwillingly to progress the ball as he did last season, the 19-year-old feels rigid while attacking.
Moreover, even his crossing and final pass need work. To succeed as a Barcelona fullback, a player needs to have offensive quality in their game.
Forward: Ferran Torres
Lastly, the report points towards Ferran Torres. The 23-year-old forward emerged this season in a way that eclipsed his former woes. Scoring for fun regardless of the minutes he was given, Torres was a force to be reckoned with. However, that brilliant run of form has now unfortunately faded it seems.
In particular, whenever the player has been deployed as a ‘false 9’, he has failed to score. Apart from Sevilla, he was deployed in that position over the last 5 games. Except for his goal in Portugal, he has been ineffective in front of goal.
The Spaniard will need to get his scoring touch back if he hopes to keep competing as a regular starter within the first team given the returns from injury alongside the new faces of the subsidiary.
