"When everyone in midfield is fit and available, there's no question that Pedri and Frenkie de Jong are the first two names on the team sheet, with the likes of Fermin Lopez and Marc Bernal et al left to fight it out for the third spot, assuming the team play in a 4-3-3 formation. Against Alaves, Marc Casado had the perfect opportunity to stake his claim for a more permanent residency in the starting line-up, but it was one that he didn't take."
"His wild attempted clearance led to the visitors' first-minute opener, and far too many of his passes were loose, meaning that they didn't reach their intended target. Hansi Flick admitted after the game the midfielder can get better. "It hasn't been easy for him. He's played as an 8, a 6... and even as a center back. He's had to adapt. We have to take the changes into account," he told reporters. "He can improve, but I'm happy with him; he gives us control in defense, he connects the defense and the attack, he's clever and intelligent, and we need him at his best.""
Barcelona returned to a lively stadium atmosphere after a 4-0 home win over Athletic Club and needed a big response following a heavy defeat at Chelsea. A strong showing against Alaves was required to prove the Chelsea loss a blip and to align with Hansi Flick's expectations. With a fully fit midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong are automatic starters and competition remains for the third midfield spot. Marc Casado missed a major opportunity to claim a regular place, committing an early error that led to a goal and producing multiple loose passes. Hansi Flick acknowledged Casado's versatility and room for improvement. Raphinha's first-half pace, width and energy expanded Barcelona's attack.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]