Xavi’s biggest dilemma will be choosing a Left back since he has Balde, Alonso, and Alba at his disposal, and finding out the right player to square off against Serge Gnabry would be his hardest yet one of the crucial decisions that could define the fate of the game.
1: Jordi Alba:
Jordi Alba has been Barca’s undisputed starter at the Left Back spot since he joined the club in 2012. Since the start of this season, Jordi Alba hasn’t featured much, as the coaching staff considers him a liability in defense. The veteran player is currently going through the worst spell of his carrier and moved further down below the pecking order after the arrival of Marcos Alonso. Jordi Alba’s chances to start against the pacy wingers of Bayern are almost non-existent.
2. Marcos Alonso:
Marcos Alonso had a stellar season at Chelsea. He offers an excellent attacking threat and at some point, you always feel he is much more of a forward than a defender. He’s good at shooting, taking free-kicks, and crossing. On the contrary, he is a liability in defense just like Jordi Alba. Given his short stint at Barca, it’s very unlikely for him to start against Bayern.
3. Alejandro Balde:
The teenager has been Xavi’s preferred choice since Alba’s stinker against Rayo Vallecano. Balde is super fast and better at defending. He has his head high and confidently fights off any winger coming his way. He provides balance to the defense and he’s an absolute monster tracking back. I personally think Xavi would prefer Alejandro Balde to start ahead of Marcos Alonso and Jordi Alba but it’s up to the coach to decide whether he’ll need stability in defense or experience.
