Xavi will make his debut as the Barcelona coach in the match against Espanyol. As the 41-year-old has himself admitted, the Catalans have no room for error due to the previous results.
Thus, he will have to pick the best XI possible. Considering the long list of injuries, it will not be easy, but here are some of his options.
Option 1
Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen - Mingueza, Araujo, Garcia, Alba - Busquets, Puig, F. de Jong - Gavi, Memphis, Coutinho.
This might be the best line-up available if we only consider the names. However, it is not ideal since Xavi prefers playing with wide wingers, but neither Gavi nor Philippe Coutinho is a natural winger.
Riqui Puig could be given a chance to play from the start, which would be a first in almost 10 months.
Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia could form the centre-back duo since they complete each other well.
Option 2
Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen - Mingueza, Araujo, Pique, Alba - Busquets, Gavi, F. de Jong - Demir, Memphis, Ezzalzouli.
If Xavi wants proper wingers on the field, he can give a try to Yusuf Demir and Abde Ezzalzouli. The latter has been training with the first team recently and might get the call-up.
In midfield, Gavi could replace Riqui Puig; the 17-year-old has been absolutely astounding in the last match for the national team.
As for the backline, Gerard Pique, if fit, could replace Garcia to provide more experience.
Option 3
Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen - Garcia, Araujo, Lenglet - F. de Jong, Busquets - Gavi, Puig - Demir, Memphis, Alba.
Xavi used a 3-4-3 formation at Al-Sadd, so he might try it at Barca as well. To do that, the coach could add Clement Lenglet to the backline since he is left-footed and can play at left-back when defending.
In midfield, Busquets and Frenkie would form the pivot duo while Gavi and Puig play higher up the field.
In attack, Jordi Alba could be used at left-wing.
❓ What option do you like best and why? Tell us in the comments below!
