An insight into the selection plans of Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernández, for the club’s return to La Liga action at the weekend, has today been provided.
The info comes courtesy of Diario Sport, and points towards Xavi still being undecided on one key aspect of his XI.
That in question? Who will form the axis of his defence against Athletic Club.
It is common knowledge that one of the two central-defensive spots will be filled by Ronald Araújo, an indisputable starter in Barcelona’s backline.
With Jules Koundé primed to continue at right-back, and Andreas Christensen expected to maintain his spot at the base of Xavi’s midfield, this leaves just two players to battle it out for the 2nd centre-half berth – Pau Cubarsí, and Iñigo Martinez.
And this is precisely where the dilemma facing the Blaugrana’s headmaster lies.
Cubarsí, based on merit alone, is deserving of the start, owing to his remarkable display against Getafe last weekend.
Iñigo, on the other hand, was roundly criticised for his role in the crucial equaliser netted by Napoli against Barca in the Champions League last Wednesday.
This should of course push the former towards a 2nd successive starting berth on Sunday night.
When taking into account the cauldron that is San Mamés, however, the decision becomes an altogether less straightforward one.
Cubarsí remains just 17 years of age, and could well find himself overawed by the occasion in the Basque Country.
As much is altogether unlikely to prove the case for Iñigo, though, with the Spaniard 15 years the senior of his young teammate, and well accustomed to Athletic’s ground, having lined out for the club for five years from 2018 to 2023.
Experience versus talent. Nous versus exuberance. And one major call for Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernández.
Conor Laird | GSFN
