For the last few weeks, there has been a clear improvement in the defensive performances of FC Barcelona. The Catalans have kept a clean sheet in their last three games, which symbolizes the improvement in this key area that had been a source of pain for the Blaugranes for the entirety of this season.
Several factors can be held responsible for this improvement. For instance, one can argue that these improvements have started coming in since Xavi announced his decision to leave the club at the end of the season, and the players are responding to ensure that the former midfielder can leave with his head held high.
On the other hand, a more physically observable explanation for this improvement can be the way in which Xavi has been using Andreas Christensen since the defeat against Villarreal. As SPORT has noted, there has been a notable shift in the way Barcelona’s defense operates since Xavi has started playing the Dane in the midfield.
The Catalans have been undefeated in the seven games they have played with Christensen as the midfield pivot, conceding only six goals, at a rate of 0.86 each game. This latter figure is significantly lower than the 1.87 goals that the team has conceded on average in its 40 official matches this season.
In addition to these statistics, the eye test also shows how notable the improvement has been. His presence in midfield has allowed the team to become more resistant to the quick transitions that they suffered from, while also providing the center-backs with a good option to get the ball to while building from the back.
The Dane is also not shy from joining in the attack at times, and this was visible when he provided the assist for Joao Felix’s goal in the game against Getafe.
Thus, with his keen ability to identify his players’ strengths and weaknesses, Xavi has been able to provide the solution for one of the team’s most potent problems, without having the club spend even a dime for this purpose.
