Xavi has tested three strategies in training to solve Barcelona’s right-back crisis | OneFootball

Icon: Barca Universal

Barca Universal

·1 October 2022

Xavi has tested three strategies in training to solve Barcelona’s right-back crisis

Article image:Xavi has tested three strategies in training to solve Barcelona’s right-back crisis

There is a strong case to suggest that Barcelona have been Europe’s ultimate victors in the transfer window.

While signings such as Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Jules Kounde seemed excellent on paper, the trio in particular have met expectations in emphatic fashion.


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Despite Hector Bellerin’s arrival from Real Betis, the same conviction cannot be afforded to the right-back department, especially with him suffering a recent calf injury. As a result, a new revelation has suggested how the club plan to deal with their current crisis in the position.

As per the latest information provided by Gerard Romero, Xavi has tested out three alternatives to ensure Barça do not miss the presence of a traditional right-back, ahead of their clash against Mallorca on Saturday night.

Firstly, a back three has been put to the test, with Marcos Alonso operating as a left-wing back and the right-sided defender taking up the right-back space.

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Secondly, the in-form Eric Garcia has been considered as an option at right-back.

And lastly, Alejandro Balde, who has shone as a left-back so far could be utilised on the opposite flank against Mallorca.

As desperate times call for desperate measures, Xavi is trying to come up with a solution for the time being, as Bellerin nurses an untimely injury.

While Kounde has often deputised as a right-back and impressed, the ex-Sevilla centre-back also succumbed to an injury during France’s 1-1 draw against Austria in the Nations League.

Whilst this is far from an ideal situation for the Catalan giants, it is a blessing in disguise to try to overcome such a major obstacle for the time being, as it could bode well in the future in case of a similar emergency situation.

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