Barcelona bounces back to top form with improved performances.
Not excessively, but not insignificantly either. Following Xavi’s announcement of his postponed resignation, Barcelona has secured 13 out of 15 points in the league and managed a draw against a struggling Napoli. Looking at the statistics, the team has undergone a transformation, taking a step forward, and we can use as many polite terms as we like to describe it.
Ultimately, Barcelona has defeated Osasuna, Alavés, Celta, and Getafe, while drawing at home against Granada in a match perhaps less thrilling than the one against Villarreal, which led Troy to ignite. Notably, the victory in Vigo, secured in the 96th minute, was thanks to the cunning of Lamine Yamal, who, with slim chances of getting the ball, created a penalty situation. Interestingly, Lewandowski had to retake the penalty due to Guaita’s early movement. Bordalás’ 4-0 win against Getafe seems to have sparked newfound optimism. Encouraging signs.
Barcelona has demonstrated not only their ability to control the ball on the ground but also their threat from aerial balls, reminiscent of American football, especially effective against teams employing high-pressure tactics and a high defensive line. The diagonal runs from the wingers into space at precisely the right moments have been a boon. However, there’s still room for improvement. In the first half, out of three one-on-one situations against David Soria, only the first resulted in a goal.
It remains unclear if the team feels more liberated, but Xavi certainly does. Crucially, he has welcomed back key players such as Ter Stegen, Cancelo, Iñigo, Joao Félix, and Raphinha. Notably, he now has options, not just to rotate but to strengthen the lineup. The true test awaits at San Mamés.
