"It's true that the high defensive line has become the most predictable part of Hansi Flick's tactical offering. When it works there's no better sight in European football, but when it's consistently exposed - as it was with alarming regularity by Girona - it's embarrassing. Only the visitors' inability to finish well stopped the Blaugranes from going into the break at least one goal behind."
"Whilst many of the plaudits are often handed to the likes of Lamine Yamal, where would this team be without Pedri? For once allowed to rest after an hour and ahead of a challenging week, his calming influence in midfield can't be understated. A brilliant goal underscored a performance that helped elevate a Barca side that often looked tired against an effervescent Girona."
"Whilst one can - and should - give Girona great credit for the way in which they set their stall out, Barca need to be more inventive in these games. How many more times do we have to endure below par performances against teams that are often happy to sit back? That said, the visitors made sure to get forward"
An early kick-off offered Barcelona an opportunity to overtake Real Madrid, but injury problems left the team vulnerable. A high defensive line has become predictable and was repeatedly exposed by Girona, whose finishing prevented them from leading at halftime. Reverting to a less risky defensive approach would be sensible, as sticking to the high line risks becoming an Achilles heel. Pedri delivered a calming midfield presence, scored a brilliant goal and should be managed carefully. Barcelona must be more inventive against teams that sit back, while Girona earned credit for their setup.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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