Xavi Faces Tactical Dilemma: Stick with Three Forwards or Return to Four Midfielders Formula?

Xavi Hernandez finds himself pondering over a tactical quandary as he contemplates his lineup for the upcoming clash against Athletic Bilbao. After deploying Joao Felix and Raphinha as forwards in the recent match against Getafe, the Barcelona coach must decide whether to persist with the three-forward approach or revert to the formula of four midfielders.

In the past two seasons, Xavi has experimented with various formations in his quest to make Barcelona more competitive. His successful experiment with the four-midfielder formula last season, where Gavi played on the left-wing while technically listed as one of the three forwards, provided the desired balance of pressure and defensive solidity, albeit at the expense of traditional wingers like Raphinha, Ferran, or Ansu.

Xavi’s tactical innovations also saw him deploy Kounde as a right-back to ensure at least three positional defenders (with Balde having freedom to push forward). This season, changes in personnel, such as Cancelo’s inclusion and Gavi’s injury, have prompted further adjustments.

The latest tactical shift involves bringing in a defensive midfielder (Christensen) to create a midfield square alongside De Jong, Gündogan, and either Pedri or Joao Felix. Against Getafe, Xavi witnessed one of Barcelona’s most compelling displays this season, featuring Joao Felix, Lewandowski, and Raphinha in a three-forward setup, even without Pedri and Lamine in the starting eleven.

However, with the match against Athletic approaching, Xavi faces a critical decision. If Pedri and Lamine return to the lineup, Barcelona would potentially play without a clear three-forward structure. Considering Athletic’s pressing style, Xavi might opt to strengthen the midfield by fielding Christensen, De Jong, Pedri, and Gündogan.

One key question remains: Will Xavi choose Cubarsi or Iñigo Martinez for the starting eleven? Cubarsi impressed in the recent Getafe match, earning praise from Xavi, who called him the best ball-playing defender in the squad. While Cubarsi excelled against a high defensive line, Iñigo Martinez’s deep understanding of Athletic Bilbao, his former club until this summer, adds an intriguing dimension to Xavi’s decision-making process.