The summer additions of Ilkay Gundogan and Oriol Romeu enhanced Barcelona’s golden midfield. After all, the Catalans had Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong, world-class players.
A 4-3-3 team would normally have six midfielders. However, Xavi uses four midfielders, including Gavi on the left wing, allowing everyone to participate.
The Spanish tactician’s tweaked 4-3-3 configuration has been discussed in recent weeks, with Robert Lewandowski advocating for three pure forwards in the final third.
Gavi is impenetrable for Xavi.
A more attacking alternative would replace Gavi on the field. In a true 4-3-3, Ferran Torres or Joao Felix would likely play that role.
However, SPORT reports that Gavi is crucial for the manager. Xavi believes his four-midfielder formation is necessary for team stability and will not change it.
A real winger would help Barcelona play more offensively and more cohesively in the final third.
Given that de Jong is in great form, Gundogan has had a great start, and Romeu is crucial as the anchorman, Gavi might be used as a third forward.
However, Xavi does not consider such a move and considers the 19-year-old indispensable to his starting lineup.
The Barcelona manager also loves the youngster’s desire, defense, and final third scoring.
A significant event
Gavi played his 100th Barcelona game in all competitions against Osasuna at El Sadar Friday night. He is now the youngest player to reach that milestone.
In his century of appearances, the La Masia graduate has started 79 games and led the team’s rise.
Since the Canary Islander is higher up the pecking order, Pedri’s return from injury may help the kid. No one like Oriol Romeu, Gundogan, or de Jong seems replaceable.
Gavi, whose market value is €90 million, will remain in the starting lineup and seek to capitalize on his chances.
