“Tactical Transformations Expected from Xavi Post-International Break, Including Felix for Gavi”

Barcelona has found themselves facing some tactical challenges, particularly when deploying a formation with four midfielders. In recent matches, the team has struggled to secure victories, often relying on late heroics to salvage results. The question of whether this formation suits the team’s style and provides enough offensive support for star striker Robert Lewandowski has become a pressing concern.

In a recent clash against Villarreal, Barcelona appeared disorganized and out of sorts, with victory hanging in the balance until Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski’s late goals turned the tide in their favor. A similar narrative played out against Osasuna just before the international break, where a late penalty from Lewandowski secured the win after Ezequiel Avila had canceled out Jules Kounde’s opener.

Lewandowski has been vocal about his frustration with the team’s inability to score freely when fielding four midfielders, as he often finds himself isolated in attack without adequate support. As Barcelona heads into the post-international break period, fans and pundits alike are eagerly anticipating tactical adjustments from manager Xavi to address these issues.

Here are four tactical changes that we expect Xavi to consider implementing when club football resumes:

1. Felix for Gavi: Xavi’s preferred position for Gavi has been on the left side of midfield or in an attacking role. While the young talent has contributed with a goal in three games, Barcelona has struggled to produce prolific attacking displays when Gavi occupies the left flank. Joao Felix could offer a solution to this problem by taking on the left-wing role. His presence can provide a fresh impetus to Barcelona’s transitional play, allowing him to invert and act as an attacking midfielder, thereby supplying Lewandowski with crucial passes and opportunities to shoot.
2. Raphinha on the Right: Lamine Yamal displayed his potential against Villarreal but had a less impactful performance in the game against Osasuna, which is understandable for a 16-year-old player. This is why it makes sense for Raphinha to return to the starting lineup on the right wing. The Brazilian has already proven his readiness by scoring for Brazil in a crucial World Cup qualifier when given the opportunity. It’s important to note that Raphinha was the only Barcelona player to achieve double-digit figures in both goals and assists last season.
3. 4-3-3 for 4-4-2: Xavi might consider revising the team’s formation after the international break. With potent wingers like Ferran, Felix, and Yamal, it becomes perplexing why Barcelona opts for four midfielders instead of three in a 4-3-3 formation. A shift to this formation could provide the team with a more balanced and attack-oriented setup.
4. Cancelo for Roberto: Cancelo has expressed his preference for playing as a right-back rather than a wing-back. Currently, Sergi Roberto occupies the right-back position due to an injury to Ronald Araujo. However, Cancelo’s abilities in that position, particularly in advanced areas, make a compelling case for his inclusion in the starting lineup after the international break if he is fit.

These tactical adjustments have the potential to inject new life and creativity into Barcelona’s gameplay. The system on paper suggests a more dynamic and attacking style that could better support Lewandowski and unleash the full potential of the team’s talented wingers. As fans eagerly await the return of club football, all eyes will be on Xavi’s strategic choices and the impact they will have on Barcelona’s performance in the upcoming matches.