Xavi Summons Barça Atlètic’s Defensive ‘Wall’ for Pre Mallorca Training

Xavi has called upon the defensive prowess of Barça Atlètic as Ferran misses the Mallorca session, casting doubt on his availability for Napoli. In the final training session before the FC Barcelona-Mallorca clash, held exceptionally on Friday, key players from Rafa Márquez’s Barça Atlètic squad took center stage.

With Ferran absent and Marcos Alonso training with the group, the session featured the notable absence of injured players such as Gavi, Balde, Frenkie de Jong, and Pedri, prompting Xavi to include several Barça Atlètic players in the mix. Among them were three instrumental defenders from Rafa Márquez’s squad, contributing significantly to the Atlètic’s recent defensive prowess, having conceded only one goal in their last four matches.

The Senegalese defensive duo, Gerard Martín, and other key players like Mbacke and Mika Faye showcased their skills during the session. With Pau Cubarsí’s permanent promotion to the first team, the Senegalese pair has formed a solid defensive tandem. Martín, a mainstay at left-back, has played every possible minute, gaining recognition for his reliability in duels and tactical acumen.

Xavi has summoned these three players, along with Marc Casadó, Unai Hernández, and regulars Diego Kochen, Marc Guiu, and Héctor Fort. The training included simulated match situations, and it remains to be seen if any of them will be included in the lineup, especially considering the absence of Ronald Araujo due to suspension.