Despite an excellent start to the season, Barcelona certainly have problem areas they must address quickly in order to end the campaign well.
One of the problem areas is the defensive unit, which was highlighted in the club’s recent 2-2 draw with RCD Mallorca this midweek.
Xavi yet to find the ideal defensive line
Diario SPORT has highlighted Barcelona’s defensive troubles, emphasising that Xavi Hernandez has yet to strike the correct balance in the defensive line.
To put things in context, Barcelona has surrendered eight goals in the first seven league games. Last season, they had allowed the same number of league goals only after the 25th matchday.
Furthermore, Xavi has deployed seven different defensive lines in the previous seven games, indicating the club’s defensive volatility.
Barcelona started the season admirably defensively, but things have since unravelled for a variety of reasons.
Injuries, uncertainty, and new signings
One of the key reasons why Barcelona have suffered defensively this season is injuries.
Key players such as Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen have had fitness issues while the club had to bring in Inigo Martinez.
The former Athletic Club star is still yet to settle in at Barcelona. Not to mention, the veteran was struggling with injuries over the past month as well.
Even Joao Cancelo is a newbie while there has been a little too much stress on Alejandro Balde, following the summer exit of Jordi Alba.
Xavi, therefore, has his task cut out as he looks to address Barcelona’s defensive problems. The upcoming games, to that end, could be crucial.
Everything suggests we may see yet another new defensive combination, with Sergi Roberto likely to start against Sevilla this weekend.