Xavi has found the perfect tactical balance between Alba and Balde at Barcelona | OneFootball

After more than a decade with FC Barcelona, veteran left-back Jordi Alba finally has competition in form of Alejandro Balde. The 19-year-old full-back has not only become a stern competitor for the spot but has, in fact, managed to make the position his own this season.

While the situation may look tough from the top, Xavi is actually enjoying the little rivalry the two have shared this season. As it turns out, the manager is not really looking at the situation as a problem but is actually perceiving it as a perfect opportunity.

According to Spanish publication SPORT, Xavi actually uses the two according to the opponent’s approach. If the opponent tends to sit deep and has a defensive style, the team needs precision and perfect passes. This is where Alba comes in handy.

The aforementioned concept was explained by Xavi himself following his side’s 3-0 win over Sevilla, where Alba was named in the playing XI.

“Well, Jordi is a passer and we don’t have players who have an exceptional last pass. It costs us. It’s hard for us to give the last one, pass, right? And today it was a game especially to give the last pass,” explained the manager.

“We have foreseen that Sevilla is a low block low-block we needed more passers per wing. We had Raphinha on one side and Jordi on the other, who is one of the best late passers in La Liga.

“Of our team, by the band, I would practically say that the best. So he gives us a lot of chances. Today he has given another assist and a goal also entering from the second line. He has perfect timing for the finish,” he added.

On the other hand, matches that are deemed more ‘open’ Balde’s style of play comes in handy. In other words, in games where Xavi understands there will be plenty of space to run, Balde will be deployed.

“Balde is more than surprising. Of transition, of dividing, of generating superiority with leadership. He drives inside and generates superiority for us with just one drive, which is very difficult to find in football,” said Xavi about Balde.