Tactics
Xavi's bittersweet reign: Why can't Barcelona control games?
There is no denying Xavi has improved this team but it’s also apparent he hasn’t improved them enough to be a powerhouse just yet
Latest
Opinion
Has Ansu Fati's fate at Barcelona already been sealed?
I wouldn’t be too far off by saying football would be robbed of a generational talent if Ansu were to fail. Not to mention Barcelona would lose a hero to carry the torch into the future
Opinion
Barcelona are sometimes a good enough team
Since the beginning of the season, I’ve been very vocal about my expectations and criteriums for this new Barcelona. Xavi needs to improve the team. It’s as simple as that and it’s objective number one. Not much has changed since; I would rather sack him on the
Opinion
As long as Barça compromise on who they want (and need) to be, they will suffer
Barcelona need to stay true to their game model. Tweaks are necessary for every single opponent but the underlying principles, philosophy and intent must remain the same.
Review
Dominant result, (not so) dominant display: Barça score 4 but still underperform?
Dominant result, (not so) dominant display: Barça score 4 but still underperform?
Opinion
Do Barcelona really need to be the protagonists every game?
Do Barcelona really need to be the protagonists every game?
Profile
Raphinha: The making of Xavi's own difference-maker?
Raphinha not only embraces the role of a difference maker but also thrives in exactly what the squad has been missing
Preview
Athletic Club opposition analysis: Xavi vs Valverde Round 2
Athletic Club’s defensive structure is still solid but a couple of squeaky wheels alongside some mechanical flaws could cause trouble for Valverde’s men when they welcome the Catalan giants at San Mames this Sunday.
Opinion
How deep (and good) is Barcelona's squad actually?
Crippled with debt, Barca's squad is suboptimal and they will face face far more obstacles in the near future.
Tactics
Robbed of the ball and their identity but still alive and victorious
Xavi’s approach was transition heavy, prioritising natural and direct wingers on either flank for quick turnarounds, exploiting space and providing width
Tactics
Deflated, disjointed and utterly disinterested: Will the real Barça please stand up
Barca miss the spark to get them over the final hurdle and lack the crucial bite to put the chances away.
Tactics
Barcelona are young and exciting. But Barcelona are also still naive and inexperienced
Barcelona’s fault was never capitalising on their controlled phases and then shutting off when it mattered the most