3 positives from Barca's disappointing 3-3 draw v Granada

Barcelona were disappointing again on Sunday as they lost precious points in the title following a 3-3 draw to Granada at home.

Granada played well on the night but Barca were architects of their own downfall as horrendous defending had Xavi punching his seat in fury.

However, there are many positives Barca can take from such a game. Let's focus on three.

Lamine Yamal is HIM

There's hardly any more debate. Lamine Yamal is everything Barca have been seeking since the departure of Lionel Messi — a talented young forward bursting through La Masia with the physicality and confidence to take the game by the scruff of the neck and make things happen.

Yamal was named Man of the Match in this game and it's easy to say Barca could've lost if the 16-year-old didn't show up with two goals.

Barca fans can look at Lamine and dream about the future of their club. That was indeed a stunning performance from a player who has been incredible all season.

It's now five goals and as many assists for Lamine this season. Raise your hand if you know another 16-year-old doing the same in Europe. Bring it down. They're mostly still in school.

Barca have a new no. 6

Xavi has unearthed a weapon that could help Barca until the end of the season by using Andreas Christensen as number 6. The Danish centre-back was brilliant again in his makeshift position.

Christensen allowed Gundogan and De Jong to express themselves in midfield

Christensen only lost possession twice in the 67 minutes he spent on the pitch. He was never dribbled past and completed 35 of 36 passes – a staggering 97% pass accuracy. That Xavi levels when he was playing.

One could hardly tell if Christensen was a seasoned midfielder or a defender playing the role for only the second time in his Barca career.

Lewandowski's brilliant 2024 continues

A striker has done at least 80% of his job when he scores a goal during the game. That's what Lewandowski has been doing more frequently in 2024 and Granada was no different.

Although the Polish striker missed one big chance in the game, he didn't underperform his 1.02 xG (expected goals) as he managed to register his name on the scoresheet.

What's more, Lewa has now scored six times for Barca in 2024, including scoring in successive La Liga games.

Barca can rest easy with their top striker now contributing goals more regularly for the team.