Barça's opener against Getafe was a shocking scene, to say the least. The team lacked identity for most parts of the game and even though the attitude of the opponents and referee left a lot to be desired, we all felt the team and tactics could've been better. The buildup from midfield was sluggish and the attack was non existent. The substitutions made a bit of difference in the second half, but by then, Raphinha's red card had done the damage to deny us 3 points.
Our next game is on Sunday against Cádiz, a team with similar philosophy as Getafe. So, this is a perfect chance to see if Xavi truly learns from his mistakes. How then should he line the team up on Sunday?
DEFENSE
The trusted quartet of Balde, Araujo, Koundé and Christensen shielded Ter Stegen at the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez and, save for a comical moment from the Uruguayan, were largely flawless, keeping a clean sheet. This was one of the very few positives from that game.
Unfortunately, Ronald Araujo sustained a left hamstring injury and will be out for up to a month. As such, it is expected that one of Marcos Alonso, Eric Garcia or Sergi Roberto will enter the starting XI. Iñigo Martinez has joined the group training, so his debut isn't far.
MIDFIELD
Here comes the tricky part. Xavi favoured the 4 man midfield against Getafe and safe to say, it didn't go well. This is something he has to learn. Sometimes, he'll have to revert to the 4-3-3, especially when facing low blocks. So, who drops to the bench?
Oriol Romeu starts for sure. So does Frenkie DeJong. İlkay Gündoğan is a world class player with loads of experience, but still a stranger to La Liga. Perhaps it'll be best to ease him in after receiving a baptism of fire last week. This means Pedri gets the nod and chance to do what he does best, which is exert control in midfield. Gavi, López, Roberto will be alongside the German on the bench.
ATTACK
With the absence of Raphinha, it is important that Xavi gets this right. First of all, 3 attackers are needed. Ansu Fati should be given the chance to prove himself on the left wing. He also combines really well with Balde.
Ferran Torres's absence against Getafe was puzzling. This is a player who has the skillsets to break down low blocks, like Ansu Fati. The little difference between them is that Torres manipulates half spaces better, while Fati is a deadlier finisher. Xavi will need both on the field against Cádiz.
They should be able to help out with goals and deliveries into the box for Robert Lewandowski. The polish striker's run of form since the World Cup hasn't been scintillating. Something has to change soon. Here's hoping it starts this weekend.
Ez Abde and of course, Lamine Yamal will be available on the bench.
The draw against Getafe left a bitter taste in the mouths of many, because we know we should've done better. With the right selection and tactics, we should be able secure our first 3 points of the season this weekend.
How should we line up against Cádiz on Sunday? Voice out your thoughts in the comments.
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