Barça’s Stalemate in San Mamés Marred by Injuries: 1×1 Player Ratings

FC Barcelona experienced a rollercoaster at San Mamés, starting strong but ending in a frustrating draw. The biggest setbacks came in the form of injuries to key players Frenkie de Jong and Pedri. Despite facing a fatigued Athletic Club, the Catalan side couldn’t capitalize on the chance to secure the second spot in the standings. Xavi’s squad lacked attacking prowess, and injuries disrupted the team’s rhythm.

Xavi Hernández maintained the lineup that dominated Getafe (4-0) with only one change: Pedri replacing Joao Félix. While Pau Cubarsí retained his place in defense, Xavi entrusted Raphinha once again. Unfortunately, injuries disrupted Barcelona’s flow, and in the second half, they struggled against an energized Athletic Club, earning only a point.

Player Ratings: 6 Ter Stegen, Goalkeeper Focused

Alert and concentrated, Ter Stegen made key interventions both aerially and with his feet. Secured a consecutive clean sheet despite minimal pressure.

4 Jules Koundé, Defender Struggling

Better in attack than defense, Koundé faced challenges, especially in the second half, allowing Berenguer to exploit his zone.

6 Pau Cubarsí, Defender Confirmed

Maintained in the starting eleven, the youth product remained reliable, with occasional lapses. Solid performance but didn’t shine as brightly as against Getafe.

6 Ronald Araujo, Defender Suspended

Positioned on the left side of the defensive axis, Araujo displayed assurance with no notable errors, although a yellow card means he will miss the next game against Mallorca.

5 Joao Cancelo, Defender Adventurous

One of Barcelona’s highlights, Cancelo ventured forward, posing threats and nearly scoring a long-range goal. Also displayed defensive commitment.

5 Andreas Christensen, Defender Underwhelming

Faced a tough test in the midfield but only partially succeeded. Defensive performance was acceptable, but struggled with passing.

5 Frenkie de Jong, Midfielder Concerning

Controlled the game until an unfortunate fall led to a twisted right ankle. His participation against Napoli is uncertain.

6 Ilkay Gündogan, Midfielder Precision

Showcased precision passing, providing key assists that demonstrated his quality. Struggled when Athletic Club intensified.

5 Pedri, Midfielder Heartbreaking

Returned to the team but sustained an injury before halftime, displaying a mix of class and occasional errors. Emotional scenes as he left the field.

4 Raphinha, Forward Diminished

Started energetically but faded quickly, even when shifted to the left interior. Xavi’s trust was not met with a strong response.

5 Robert Lewandowski, Forward Invisible

Had minimal impact, one of his least participative games, lacking the usual performance, and failed to score.

5 Fermín López, Midfielder Impractical

Entered with gusto, created a good chance, but also had imprecisions.

6 Lamine Yamal, Forward Persistent

Came in for Pedri and persisted throughout the game, attempting to disrupt but faced challenges.

4 Joao Felix, Forward Hasty

Contributed minimally, with several mistakes during his time on the field.

5 Íñigo Martínez, Defender Returned

Made his debut at San Mamés for Barcelona, adding experience in crucial moments.

5 Oriol Romeu, Midfielder Oxygen Provider

Sought to provide stability in midfield and fulfilled his role.

Injuries disrupted Barcelona’s flow, and despite glimpses of promise, they had to settle for a draw. The 1×1 player ratings highlight both commendable and concerning performances in a match that could have elevated Barcelona in the standings.