Xavi Hernandez’s Game Plan to Salvage Barcelona’s Season

After publicly announcing his departure on June 30, Xavi Hernandez now faces the challenge of resolving crucial issues if he wants to clinch one or both of the remaining titles: LaLiga and the Champions League. The coach, convinced that his announcement frees the team, must address deficiencies within the team over the next five months.

Currently navigating a challenging period with a team below expectations, Xavi believes it is still capable of achieving success. To do so, he must first rectify certain issues.

Unity in Response: Xavi has called for unity among his players, emphasizing the need for a collective and resounding response on the field. The team can only progress if the entire squad pushes forward. He will demand intensity and an optimal mood, urging the players to act as if they have a coach for many years, avoiding a provisional mindset.

Defensive Improvements: The leakage of conceded goals needs immediate attention. In the last five matches since the defeat to Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup, Barcelona has conceded 14 goals, reaching a total of 46 for the season, the same as the previous year. Improved concentration and avoiding early setbacks are crucial. Injuries have disrupted the defense, and Xavi must address this issue.

Midfield Identity: Xavi has experimented with various strategies, including the traditional Barcelona style, employing a fourth midfielder, playing with a double pivot and two interior players, using inside full-backs, and deploying wide wingers. The team requires a recognizable pattern and a sense of comfort in its gameplay.

Attack Efficiency: Compensating for defensive vulnerabilities, Barcelona needs to enhance its offensive efforts. With an increased tendency to concede, the team lacks goal-scoring efficiency. Lewandowski’s goal-scoring form is not at the level of the previous season.

Player Optimization: Key players in the squad are falling below expectations, particularly in defensive aspects. Xavi must extract the best versions of these players, with Koundé and Araujo expected to step up.

As Xavi navigates these challenges, Barcelona hopes to revive its season and pursue the remaining silverware under his leadership.