The next challenge for Xavi’s Barcelona will undoubtedly be the Spanish Super Cup. Set to take place over in Saudi Arabia, the competition sees four Spanish teams scheduled to fight it out for the title. For Barcelona, this tournament represents a great opportunity at an early title this season.
Last time around, the same competition gave Barcelona a much needed boost. Xavi will be hoping that it can do the same thing again for his current Barcelona side who are not exactly playing at their best. However, heading into the first game against Osasuna in their semi-final, Xavi has a certain dilemma to address.
As highlighted by SPORT, the Barcelona midfield is not exactly set in stone. Two players, Frenkie De Jong and Ilkay Gundogan, are thus far the only starters in Xavi’s mind. Pedri has gone along with the team to Saudi Arabia, but his participation as a starter feels quite improbable at the moment.
However, there are two primary alternatives within Barcelona. Based off of form, both Fermin Lopez and Sergi Roberto have a claim to be the third midfielder. The latter remains one of the club’s most experienced veterans and also happens to be the first captain. He has been performing quite well in his latest displays.
On the other hand, Fermin Lopez may not have Roberto’s experience but he provides his own dynamism to the team. Able to shoot ferociously from distance, the youngster is a tenacious talent. His last performance also saw him grab the opener for Barcelona in a game where the club managed to win by just one goal.
However, Xavi could also opt to go for four midfielders as he did for a large portion of last season. Through the use of a false winger, the Barcelona coach managed to overload the midfield area. This previously helped his team regain some much needed control over games.
The only problem that stands in his own from doing it again is Ferran Torres. When it comes to form, perhaps no Barcelona player has surprised more than the Spanish forward. His presence also feels warranted, especially given that Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha are guaranteed starters simply based off of a lack of competition.